U.S. Navy Navigation Capabilities Enhanced with Upgraded INS/GPS Technology

Northrop Grumman Corporation is enhancing the U.S. Navy’s airborne navigation capabilities with the introduction of the LN-251M, an advanced upgrade of the LN-251 Inertial Navigation System/Global Positioning System (INS/GPS). 

This system incorporates M-code, a secure military signal designed to offer superior resistance against jamming and interference from hostile threats.

The LN-251M is the first navigation system equipped with M-code technology specifically designed for naval aircraft. By utilizing M-code, this system significantly strengthens resilience against GPS signal disruptions, ensuring pilots can maintain operational effectiveness even in environments where GPS signals have been blocked or manipulated.

Aircraft currently outfitted with LN-251 units featuring Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) GPS can be easily upgraded to the M-code configuration. Engineered for seamless integration, the LN-251M works in harmony with existing navigation systems while remaining adaptable to future GPS modernization efforts and software advancements.

Ryan Arrington, Vice President, Navigation and Cockpit Systems at Northrop Grumman, said, “The LN-251M is Northrop Grumman’s newest innovation in elevating airborne navigation to the next level. This important enhancement is a critical milestone for delivering advanced positioning, navigation and timing capabilities because it enables pilots to safely operate with a jam-resilient navigation system for naval aircraft.”