Northrop Grumman will develop system definition requirements for a new missile early-detection system under a 24.8-million-dollar contract from the U.S. Air Force, the leading U.S. defense company announced on Wednesday.

The U.S. Air Force's Alternate Infrared Satellite System (AIRSS) will provide uninterrupted coverage to detect strategic and theater ballistic missiles in their launch and boost phases and transmit that data to the ground to provide missile warning for the United States and its allies.

According to a press release, Northrop's Space Technology sector will define system-level performance requirements for the space, ground and launch segments and key subsystems of the AIRSS program, which is set to launch by 2015.

"For more than 30 years, Northrop Grumman has been the highly successful provider of assured missile warning and missile defense space systems to our nation and its allies," said Alexis Livanos, president of Northrop Grumman Space Technology sector.

Livanos said the company's experience and in-depth technical and programmatic knowledge provide it with the ability to execute such a critical program.

The Los Angeles-based Northrop is a global defense and technology company with revenues of about 30 billion dollars, whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.

Source: Xinhua