Northrop Launches New Zealand Operations

Northrop Grumman made its expansion into New Zealand official this week during a ceremony in Wellington, the company said.

The contractor is partnering with local companies, including Electrotech in navigation systems and DataCom in information and communications technology.

The move follows Northrop's acquisition of two Australian companies, M5 Network Security in 2012 and Qantas Defense Services in early 2014. The contractor said the buys have quickly expanded Northrop's presence in Australia.

"Northrop Grumman has made the decision to invest in this region for the long term," Ian Irving, chief executive of Northrop Grumman Australia, said in the company announcement.