The third successful trial, this time aboard a sounding rocket, exceeded performance benchmarks for g-force tolerance, altitude and velocity.
The latest trial confirmed that the inertial measurement unit (IMU) can operate effectively in global positioning system (GPS)-denied environments, a critical capability for future hypersonic weapons which require precision targeting at extreme speeds without relying on satellite navigation.
The system also demonstrated exceptional ruggedness and survivability in the demanding conditions of hypersonic and space flight, maintaining full functionality while collecting valuable inertial data.
Importantly, the unit validated its reusability by completing three separate trials in just six months, including two earlier flights on a reusable hypersonic vehicle.
Sam Dimashkie, director of future navigation technology at Northrop Grumman’s Research and Development organisation, said the results marked a step change in strategic capability.
“Testing the Northrop Grumman AHT IMU in real-world conditions at unprecedented speeds proves we’ve developed a navigation system that makes platforms incredibly agile and nearly impossible to defend against,” Dimashkie said. “Our technology is a major leap forward in strategic capabilities, outshining anything currently available to US forces.”
The Advanced Hypersonic Technology (AHT) IMU relies on a resonating gyroscope to provide precise motion sensing and navigation. By enabling accuracy without GPS, it ensures warfighters can maintain precision strike capability even in contested or denied environments.
Northrop Grumman has a long legacy in developing robust positioning, navigation and timing systems for military and aerospace platforms.
The company said the AHT IMU builds on that foundation to deliver one of the most advanced and resilient navigation solutions yet, designed to guide defence systems through the toughest operational conditions.