Northrop

Northrop is an American aerospace and defense technology company known for its long history in aircraft design and systems integration. Originally founded by Jack Northrop as Northrop Aircraft Company, it developed a reputation for innovative flying-wing concepts and advanced military aircraft. After a series of corporate changes, the company emerged as Northrop Corporation and, in 1994, merged with Grumman to form Northrop Grumman, a major defense contractor and technology provider.

Historically, Northrop produced a number of notable aircraft and programs. The company built the P-61 Black Widow, the United States’ first operational long-range night fighter used during World War II. In the postwar era, Northrop contributed to the development of the F-5 Freedom Fighter and the related T-38 Talon trainer, among other aircraft. The flying-wing design philosophy continued to influence later programs, culminating in the development of the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, a hallmark of Northrop’s contribution to modern aerial warfare.

In the latter part of the 20th century and into the 21st, Northrop’s work expanded beyond traditional aircraft into advanced systems, including unmanned aerial vehicles, space technologies, missiles, and cybersecurity capabilities. As part of Northrop Grumman, the Northrop name remains associated with many high-profile programs and research efforts across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains.

Today, Northrop Grumman operates as a major U.S. defense contractor and technology company, with Northrop continuing as a brand and division within the broader corporate structure, reflecting its legacy in innovative aerospace engineering and integrated defense systems.