AiON C-UAS
A soldier or operator uses a ruggedized tablet showing the AiON C-UAS system interface. Image: Northrop Grumman
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Northrop Grumman is introducing a new addition to its growing counter-drone portfolio with AiON, a next-gen counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) built to detect and neutralize threats before they escalate.

The system combines artificial intelligence, modular architecture, and intuitive controls to assist operators across public safety, security, and defense missions.

Its interface features AI-assisted decision aids, helping teams spot, assess, and respond to emerging threats with greater efficiency.

Military personnel in a tactical command center monitoring the real-time air domain using a system interface, which appears to be AiON C-UAS system visualizing multiple targets. Image: Northrop Grumman

An open design allows for rapid integration of new sensors and third-party algorithms, giving operators flexibility as threats evolve.

Dynamic Operations

AiON integrates more than 45 sensors and 50 effectors, and its “Engage All” mode can reportedly reduce operator workload by up to 98 percent against drone swarms.

It also supports both hybrid and tactical operations, letting operators adapt to shifting threats while working with existing platforms.

Autonomous functions allow simultaneous monitoring and response to various types of threats.

A visualization of a hostile drone swarm approaching a coastline at night. Image: Northrop Grumman

AiON in Action

AiON recently showcased its counter-drone capabilities during a live-fire test with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona.

It successfully detected, tracked, and neutralized both simulated and real targets across four engagements using advanced decision aids and autonomous functions.

It also demonstrated built-in safety features, including friendly air track avoidance.

“Northrop Grumman rapidly developed AiON to meet the urgent needs of the US military,” said Kenn Todorov, vice president and general manager of command and control and weapons integration at Northrop.

“With AiON’s strong performance at Yuma, we’ve demonstrated our ability to innovate and quickly deliver proven capabilities into the hands of our warfighters.”

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