Space-based cryptographic systems to be developed by Northrop Grumman, Aeronix
NewsAugust 13, 2026
FALLS CHURCH, Virginia. Northrop Grumman and Aeronix launched a multimillion-dollar partnership to develop space-based cryptographic systems for secure defense communications, the company announced in a statement.
The companies will develop cryptographic applications intended to protect classified data stored, transmitted and processed aboard space-based defense platforms and networks, the statement reads. The effort will also include development and fielding of cryptographic devices for use within mission systems.
Northrop Grumman and Aeronix plan to use modular, open architecture designs that can be updated in response to emerging cyber and communications threats, according to the statement. The systems are also intended for integration with existing and future platforms, networks and systems.
The companies are targeting a five-fold increase in classified-data processing and transmission performance as part of the effort, Northrop Grumman says.
The partnership follows an earlier prototype effort in which the companies developed a space-based mesh networking system for the Department of War. That work focused on secure data sharing across low-Earth-orbit satellite networks, the statement adds.
