Northrop Grumman works through iCONN Systems to introduce wet-mateable connectors for undersea military uses

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Officials of the Northrop Grumman Corp. Navigation & Maritime Systems segment in Annapolis, Md., have signed a non-exclusive agreement to manufacture niobium-based connectors (NiobiCon) for use in harsh underwater environments.

NiobiCon makes electrical connections underwater to transfer power and exchange data without using seals, oil, or moving parts. This technology was developed to address the inefficient recharging of unmanned vehicles in underwater environments.

When the niobium connector contacts the water, it creates its own thin isolating layer, which the connection scrapes off. Once disconnected, the layer instantly regenerates.

Northrop Grumman has entered into an agreement with iCONN Systems LLC in Lombard, Ill., which makes connectors for harsh environments. Officials at iCONN will work with potential customers to develop reliable interconnects for commercial and military applications.

For more information contact Northrop Grumman Mission Systems online at www.northropgrumman.com, or iCONN Systems at www.iconnsystems.com.