Digital engineering technology and the aerospace and defense industry are (re)joining forces.

Siemens Digital Industries Software announced this week that it has renewed its contract with Northrop Grumman Corp. to continue supplying the defense giant with its Siemens Xcelerator portfolio. This software provides a “comprehensive digital ecosystem” to support the full product life cycle of Northrop Grumman’s complex aerospace systems, from design and manufacturing to testing and delivery.

Adam Shepherd, NG Fellow at Northrop Grumman, spoke about the partnership during a keynote presentation at Realize LIVE Americas 2025, held June 2-5 in Detroit. Describing his company’s “digital transformation,” he said, “Siemens’ tools and collaborative solutions are not just enablers—they are a catalyst that empowers us to deliver rapid, affordable and future-focused solutions to our customers.”

Northrop Grumman is using Siemens’ digital tools to break down engineering silos within the company and streamline the design and manufacturing processes, Shepherd noted. This has brought about tangible results in recent years, he said, including a substantial reduction in engineering rework from 20% to less than 1% and a swift 27-month turnaround time to achieve first flight for its Model 437 Vanguard stealth demonstration aircraft.

With the renewed contract, “Northrop Grumman will continue to utilize the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio to support its strategic decision-making based on cutting-edge technologies and a comprehensive digital thread that enables real-time collaboration, rapid development and a digital-first approach,” said Del Costy, managing director for the Americas at Siemens Digital Industries Software.

The long-standing partnership between the companies was highlighted in March 2025, when, for the second time, Northrop Grumman named Siemens a recipient of its Supplier Excellence Award.