Northrop Grumman transfers fourth MQ-4C Triton strategic drone to US Navy worth over $100m

The US Navy has received another MQ-4C Triton drone. Northrop Grumman has handed over a fourth strategic drone to the service.

Here's What We Know

The MQ-4C Triton is a relatively new reconnaissance-level drone. Northrop Grumman was able to put it into service about five years ago. The exact price is unknown, but it's safe to say the cost is more than $100 million.

In fiscal 2015, production of a single drone cost more than $180m including development. The entire programme is valued at around $13bn. The Triton is operated by the Royal Australian Air Force and the US Navy.

Northrop Grumman said in a press release that the MQ-4C will provide unprecedented surveillance and maritime defence capabilities. The drone will be able to carry out missions flying at altitudes above 17,000 metres.

The MQ-4C Triton is based on the RQ-4N Global Hawk strategic reconnaissance drone. It has a wingspan of nearly 40 metres, a length of 14.5 metres and a maximum take-off weight of more than 14,000 kg.

The drone is capable of carrying almost 1,100kg of payload on an external sling. The inner compartment can hold approximately 150 kg more. The MQ-4C Triton has a range of about 3,600km, a flight time of more than 24 hours and a top speed of about 615km/h.

Source: Northrop Grumman