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Northrop Grumman integrates advanced manufacturing and mission systems to enhance the F-35 Lightning II. (Photo Credit: Northrop Grumman)
Northrop Grumman is transforming the F-35 Lightning II program by integrating advanced automation and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that speed production and boost aircraft performance. These innovations enable the company to build the 5th generation stealth fighter faster and smarter, directly supporting critical Department of War efforts and delivering a more capable platform for the warfighter and our allies.
Enhancing Efficiency Through Automation
To further increase the speed, capacity and efficiency of manufacturing these critical systems, Northrop Grumman production teams are incorporating new automated production and quality control systems that use AI. These modules are the most advanced integrated avionics system ever designed, providing F-35 pilots with a seamless, highly integrated view of the battlespace, significantly enhancing their effectiveness and situational awareness in complex mission environments.
These innovations are ensuring faster operations on the factory floor as the company continues to deliver the highest-quality products to the U.S. military and its allies.
One of the latest improvements is the introduction of a new tooling system known as a “co-bot,” or collaborative robot, which works in tandem with technicians on the production line.
A technician monitors the co-bot’s work to optimize each step of the process. (Photo Credit: Northrop Grumman)
“We recently installed a co-bot that assists technicians to precisely install bolts to attach the front housing area of the Communications, Navigation and Identification (CNI) module,” said Lavell Catlin, manufacturing manager for the CNI production line. “This system cuts what used to take hours to complete, down to only a few minutes. Additionally, we’ve been able to shift a couple of our employees onto different key efforts, which improve the speed and performance of our overall production process.”
AI-Enabled Systems Improve Quality and Performance
Beyond automating key steps in assembly, production teams are also expanding their use of AI-driven quality control systems. These tools analyze completed modules in fine detail, flagging potential issues before a unit leaves the factory. This added layer of scrutiny reinforces Northrop Grumman’s commitment to delivering highly reliable systems that aircrews can depend on when it matters most.
“Our AI-based integration of quality control systems has greatly helped identify even the smallest issue in completed modules to ensure we’re delivering top-quality products every time,” Catlin said.
Skilled technicians at Northrop Grumman’s CNI lab closely inspect F-35 components, alongside advanced robotics. (Photo Credit: Northrop Grumman)
These AI-enabled improvements are being incorporated across other parts of the CNI production line, creating a smarter, more efficient manufacturing environment focused on speed, precision and repeatable quality. By modernizing how it builds the F-35’s CNI modules, Northrop Grumman is strengthening its ability to support the U.S. military and allied forces with the critical capabilities they need for mission success today and into the future.
Accelerating Production with Automation and AI
Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Assembly Line in Palmdale, California, uses automation, robotics and mixed reality tools to produce the center fuselage, the F-35’s largest stealth-critical structural assembly, at a rate of one unit every 30 hours. This rapid delivery cadence is vital to meeting the demands of the highest rate 5th generation aircraft production program in the world, enabling the program to maintain both the speed and scale necessary to enhance mission readiness across the global fleet.
Northrop Grumman produces advanced aerostructures using machinery and tools the company has pioneered, delivering critical components, such as wing skins and nacelles, for all variants at high rates. This leadership in automated composite manufacturing drives structural integrity and superior performance in harsh environments.
The company also leads the F-35 industry team in low-observable technology, leaning on decades of stealth expertise to ensure the F-35 can perform in hostile environments.
Northrop Grumman is a critical industry partner on the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 team, driving the development, production and sustainment of all three F-35 Lightning II variants for the U.S. and allied nations. From the center fuselage, which serves as the backbone of the aircraft, to the advanced radar and communications suites that function as the F-35’s eyes and ears, Northrop Grumman delivers mission-defining capabilities the aircraft depends on to dominate in contested environments. Coupled with comprehensive operational support and sustainment, Northrop Grumman’s unmatched expertise gives F-35 pilots a decisive edge in performance, survivability and situational awareness on every mission.
