Northrop Grumman Tern Explained

Tactically Exploited Reconnaissance Node (TERN), a joint program between DARPA and the U.S. Navy's Office of Naval Research (ONR), seeks to greatly increase the effectiveness of forward-deployed small-deck ships such as destroyers and frigates by enabling them to serve as mobile launch and recovery sites for specially designed unmanned aerial systems (UAS).^[1] These vehicles are to carry 600lb of ordnance in order to conduct combat strikes.^{[2] [3]}

History

Northrop Grumman won the contract to develop the project in December 2015 with tail-sitter, flying wing aircraft with a twin nose-mounted contra-rotating propeller propulsion system.^{[4] [5]}

Notes and References

1. Web site: DARPA Doubles Down on Tern by Funding 2nd Test Vehicle. DARPA.
2. Web site: DARPA's Tern drone passes milestones. 16 November 2023 .
3. Web site: Northrop's New Combat Drone Could Outclass Boeing F/A-18, Lockheed F-35. Fox Business. 18 December 2016.
4. News: Northrop Grumman wins DARPA TERN programme. Flight Global.
5. Web site: General Electric and Northrop Grumman Will Put a Drone on Every Boat. 23 March 2018.