Clapperton asserts Airborne Triton drone is critical to Navy’s signal objectives

In San Diego, Vice Adm. Craig Clapperton discussed the Navy’s use of the MQ-4C Triton drone for monitoring and gathering intelligence. This drone has capabilities such as long flight durations, high altitudes, and long-range sensors that can intercept electronic signals and adversary communications. Clapperton highlighted the importance of Triton’s signals and geospatial intelligence capabilities, expecting improved information-sharing as Triton usage continues. Northrop has delivered at least five of the uncrewed systems to the service, and a multibillion-dollar push, Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control, aims to dissolve the barriers that have long compartmentalized the services, their databases, and their weapons. Clapperton mentioned that Tritons will expand their orbit and communicate with various Naval Information Operations Commands, providing a federated approach to battlespace awareness and helping the warfighter have a better understanding of their area of responsibility. U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Craig Clapperton mentioned at the West conference in San Diego on Feb. 13, 2024 that Triton is on an INDOPACOM orbit, communicates with NIOC Pacific in Hawaii, Whidbey Island, Task Force 1060 in NIOC Maryland, and Task Force 1050. Last year, Northrop was able to shuttle information between its Triton and simulated battlefield assets, improving connectivity through a “gateway” that linked into the drone’s onboard radar and advanced computing.