R. Keele, J. Ornato, Northrop Grumman Corporation, El Segundo, CA; P. E. Smith, J. Fields, F. DiCocco, Alcoa inc., Alcoa Center, PA; M. Falugi, Airforce Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH
Northrop Grumman and Alcoa teamed together under the auspices of the Advanced Aluminum Aerostructures Initiative (A3I), a DoD contract administered by the US Air Force. The main goal of this program is to demonstrate that close cooperation between material producers and airframers through all stages of product development could significantly reduce the cost of installed aerostructure while maintaining or improving performance. The presentation will outline the Northrop Grumman Corporation’s Affordability process; discuss the importance of A3I methodologies used in developing improved designs and reducing Unit Recurring Flyway (URF) and Unit Life Cycle Cost (ULCC).
Summary: Joint Northrop Grumman and Alcoa program under the auspices of the Advanced Aluminum Aerostructures Initiative (A3I).
