The US Navy has awarded a contract to Northrop Grumman to provide four AN/SPQ-9B radar system sets.

AN/SPQ-9B radar provides the capability to detect and track fast sea-skimming anti-ship missile threats and helps train 5in deck guns onto air and surface targets as part of the mk86 gun fire control system.

The high resolution, X-band narrow-beam missile defence radar will be installed aboard Nimitz Class aircraft carriers and Ticonderoga Class cruisers.

The system will also be fitted to the Arleigh Burke and Spruance Class destroyers, as well as Wasp and San Antonio Class amphibious assault ships.

The $26.6m contract includes options that could raise the total value to $281.5m.

Work will be carried out in New York, Connecticut and Maryland, and is expected to be complete by April 2011.