Valen: A Generational Leap in Sensing Tech

With its lightweight design, Valen can integrate into newly designed systems or modernize existing platforms. (Photo Credit: Northrop Grumman)

LINTHICUM, Md. - Feb. 16, 2026 - Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) is introducing Valen, the newest multifunction active electronically scanned array (AESA) in the company's advanced sensing portfolio. Valen's next generation capabilities are ready to deliver the tactical edge to U.S. and allied warfighters.

This wideband array is lighter, smaller and more affordable, combining radar, electronic warfare and communications into one elegant design for crewed and uncrewed platforms, from sky to space.

• Company-Funded Innovation: Funded entirely by Northrop Grumman, Valen builds upon generations of combat-proven AESA technology.
• Accelerated Production: Valen is 3D-printed and digitally designed, reducing its production timeline. Northrop Grumman continues to deliver at the speed of innovation.
• Unmatched Performance Excellence: Valen's exceptional performance is powered by Northrop Grumman Microelectronics Center's advanced packaging techniques, which combine many different semiconductor parts into one micro-sized package, so the device works faster, stays cooler and uses less power, all within a smaller footprint.
• Open Architecture: Built with the latest open-architecture standards, Valen's hardware and software unites the power of advanced sensor capabilities from across Northrop Grumman and enables rapid updates.
• Next-Level Detection: An AESA is a digitally controlled array that uses antennas and sensors to provide rapid detection, tracking and imaging capabilities in any direction without the need for mechanical movement.

Expert:

Krys Moen, vice president, advanced mission capabilities, Northrop Grumman: "Our warfighters require advanced situational awareness no matter what platform they're operating. Valen's design embodies the future of warfare-integrating cutting-edge technology, adaptability and affordability to enable quick decision making and effective mission execution. Valen's compact, lightweight design cuts production time, delivering a highly capable product to the field faster."

Valen was successfully flight tested on Northrop Grumman owned CRJ-700s. (Photo Credit: Northrop Grumman)

Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with the capabilities they need to connect and protect the world and push the boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers' toughest problems, our employees define possible every day.