MQ-4C Triton Modernization

The PE 0305421N: RQ-4 Modernization program is a Navy Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) effort focused on the continued modernization and capability enhancement of the MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Air System (UAS). The primary objective of this program is to provide persistent maritime Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (ISR&T) across global high-density sea-lanes, littorals, and areas of national interest. The Triton system, which includes the air vehicle, mission control system, specialized sensors, and communications suite, is a cornerstone of the Navy's strategy for maintaining maritime domain awareness and full-spectrum superiority. The program supports both fleet and combatant commanders by delivering real-time battlespace awareness and synchronizing operational actions.

Project Unit 2939 funds incremental upgrades to the MQ-4C Triton, focusing on both hardware and software improvements. FY 2026 objectives include the development and integration of advanced radar modes such as Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI), enhanced Electro-Optic/Infrared (EO/IR) detection for Geographic Intelligence (GEOINT), and High Gain Aperture (HGA) for improved Signals Intelligence (SIGINT). Other key goals are to bolster communications, navigation, and network resiliency in denied environments, implement Multi-UA Command and Control (C2) for increased on-station time, and introduce Sense and Avoid (SAA) capabilities for improved mission availability and airspace integration. The program also addresses Diminishing Manufacturing Source (DMS) and cybersecurity updates to ensure long-term system viability.

Product development under Project Unit 2939 is managed primarily by Northrop Grumman, the airframe prime contractor and systems integrator. The contractor is responsible for the integration of upgrades into the Triton UAS, including management, engineering, and logistics activities. FY 2026 product development efforts focus on continuing Increment 2 capability improvements, supporting advanced sensor and network integration, and preparing test assets for ground and flight testing. These upgrades are essential for maintaining the relevance and effectiveness of the MQ-4C Triton in evolving operational environments.

Integrated Logistics Support (ILS), studies, and analysis activities are planned to ensure that the new Increment 2 capabilities are fully supported throughout their lifecycle. FY 2026 funding supports logistics support, technical engineering services, sensor reliability and maintainability risk reduction, logistics supportability analyses, environmental planning, modeling and simulation, and manpower and basing assessments. These efforts are critical for the successful fielding and sustainment of the upgraded Triton capabilities, ensuring operational readiness and minimizing downtime.

Test and Evaluation (T&E) is a significant component of the modernization program, with FY 2026 funding allocated for integrated test team labor, subsystem ground and acceptance testing, and satellite communications required for system-level tests. The program continues System Level II and III testing, software build flight tests, and corrections of deficiencies (CODs) to validate the performance and reliability of Increment 2 upgrades. These activities are vital for risk reduction and for meeting program milestones related to capability deployment.

Program Management (PM) funding in FY 2026 supports ongoing management activities, including milestone and acquisition documentation, capability refinement, open systems architecture development, affordability assessments, risk management, system integration planning, technology maturity reviews, and program protection planning. The increase in FY 2026 PM funding is primarily attributed to inflation and the expanded scope of Increment 2 activities.

Project Unit 3329 supports advanced sensor payload development, integration, support, and test activities that enhance the ISR&T capabilities of the Triton system. The details of this line item are classified and submitted to Congress in the classified budget justification books. While specific objectives and accomplishments are not publicly available, this project unit is understood to address sensitive operational requirements and national security priorities.