Northrop Grumman Corporation has been awarded production and long lead time materials (LLTM) contracts for the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) C4ISR and control systems, by Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG).

Northrop Grumman will produce C4ISR and control systems for the lead OPC, USCGC Argus (WMSM-915), and procure LLTM for these systems on the second OPC, USCGC Chase (WMSM-916).

Northrop Grumman’s contributions to the OPC platform include the integrated bridge, navigation, command and control, computing network, data distribution, machinery control and propulsion control systems. It will perform C4ISR system integration at their OPC Test and Integration Facility in Charlottesville, and control systems integration at their Charlottesville Land-Based Test Facility.

“Northrop Grumman is a key member of our OPC team,” said Joey D’Isernia, president, ESG. “Together, we have established an innovative approach to C4ISR and control systems integration that supports ESG’s ability to deliver high quality, highly capable vessels on time and within budget.”

The OPC will provide the majority of the USCG offshore presence for homeland security missions, replacing the 210-foot and 270-foot Medium Endurance Cutters. On Sept. 28, the USCG exercised ESG’s option to produce the Argus and procure LLTM for the Chase.

“Northrop Grumman’s C4ISR and control systems will enhance the OPC platform’s capabilities to execute the Coast Guard’s missions,” said Todd Leavitt, vice president, maritime systems, Northrop Grumman. “We are proud to have supported ESG in the achievement of this major OPC milestone, and look forward to continuing success in our support of this vital USCG program.”