Northrop Grumman’s ATHENA Cleared for Phase II of US Army ITDS Program
The US Army has selected Northrop Grumman’s ATHENA missile warning sensor to advance into Phase II of its Improved Threat Detection System (ITDS) program under an Other Transaction Agreement.
ITDS will replace the Army’s long-serving Common Missile Warning System, extending protection for aviation platforms to include not just missiles, but drones, artillery, rockets, lasers, and small-arms fire. Fleet integration is planned across legacy and future rotorcraft, beginning with the MV-75 Future Long Range Assault Aircraft and Apache attack helicopters.
ATHENA System
Northrop’s ATHENA uses an advanced infrared sensor array that delivers high-resolution detection, faster processing, and wider maneuvering time for pilots. Its modular architecture supports 360-degree coverage while offloading computing demands from onboard mission systems.
Unlike CIRCM, which focuses on infrared-guided threats, ATHENA expands detection to hostile gunfire and anti-tank missiles. Built for adaptability, it features software that can be easily updated for new mission requirements, improving survivability over time.
Next Steps
After initial demonstrations in Phase I with Lockheed Martin in 2024, Phase II will cover design refinement, flight testing, prototype hosting, and integration. The Army expects rapid prototyping to begin in 2026, producing 10 prototypes and 100 deployable units, with first operational use projected in 2029.
