An Australian company is to manufacture structure components for Northrop Grumman MQ-4C unmanned aerial systems for the U.S. Navy.

The contract to Mincham Aviation for the components was announced by Northrop Grumman Australia and is the second for the UAS to an Australian company.

"We are pleased to be able to further demonstrate our ongoing commitment to developing and fostering capabilities in local supply chains," said Ian Irving, chief executive, Northrop Grumman Australia. "We will continue to look to offer opportunities to quality-focused Australian companies to be involved in the production and sustainment of Triton, which will be one of the U.S. Navy's and Royal Australian Air Force's key capabilities for many years to come."

The Triton is an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance drone with an endurance of 24 hours, a maximum speed of 357 mph, and a service ceiling of 60,000 feet. More than 60 are expected to be eventually produced.

The contract to Mincham Aviation was facilitated through the Australian Department of Defense's Global Supply Chain program, through which international companies can assess Australian industry for their needs.

In July, Northrop Grumman contracted Ferra Engineering for mechanical sub-assemblies and has contacted other companies for possible manufacture of cables, complex machined and composite assemblies and special tooling equipment for low-rate production Tritons.

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced last year that Australia intends to purchase the UAS system.