Northrop Grumman deploys AI-powered automation to speed F-35 avionics production, tighten quality control
NOC•Northrop Grumman rolled out AI-driven automation for F-35 avionics production; a collaborative robot reduced bolt installation from hours to a few minutes. AI quality-control tools scan completed modules, while an automated Palmdale line produces F-35 center fuselages at one every 30 hours.
1. Automation in production
Northrop Grumman rolled out AI-driven automation to speed production of F-35 Communications, Navigation and Identification avionics modules. A collaborative robot reduced bolt-installation time for a module’s front housing from hours to a few minutes, and AI-based tools scan completed modules for defects before shipment.
2. Fuselage assembly pace
In Palmdale, an automated assembly line is producing F-35 center fuselages at a pace of one unit every 30 hours.
