---
title: "Andy Knight advances Northrop Grumman missile defense technology at Schriever Air Force Base; Speeds NGI integration into GWS."
sdDatePublished: "2026-08-14T16:12:00Z"
source: "https://www.northropgrumman.com/life-at-northrop-grumman/from-warfighter-to-defender"
topics:
  - name: "defence equipment"
    identifier: "medtop:20000297"
  - name: "military weaponry and equipment"
    identifier: "medtop:20000602"
  - name: "national security"
    identifier: "medtop:20000598"
  - name: "aerospace engineering"
    identifier: "medtop:20000757"
  - name: "information technology and computer science"
    identifier: "medtop:20000763"
locations:
  - "United States"
---


Andy Knight advances Northrop Grumman missile defense technology at Schriever Air Force Base; Speeds NGI integration into GWS.

From Warfighter to Defender: Andy Knight’s Journey in Missile Defense | Northrop Grumman

Andy Knight’s Journey in Missile Defense Andy Knight leverages his frontline military experience to advance Northrop Grumman’s missile defense technology, enhancing warfighter readiness and accelerating next-generation system capabilities for national security. By Matt Kroschel From the control consoles at Schriever Air Force Base to the cutting-edge missile defense programs at Northrop Grumman, Andrew “Andy” Knight’s path embodies dedication to protecting the nation. Formerly a warfighter commanding console operations in the U.S. Army, Andy now plays a pivotal role at Northrop Grumman, leveraging frontline experience to drive next-generation missile defense capabilities. At Northrop Grumman, Andy contributes his unique perspective to the Ground-based Midcourse Defense Weapon System (GWS) – America’s critical shield against long-range ballistic missile attacks. As part of the team integrating the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) into the GWS system, he helps enhance warfighter readiness and fortify missile defense technology that is vital to national security. “Having been on the front lines, I understand exactly what operators need,” Andy said. “Bringing that experience into system design and integration means we deliver capabilities that truly serve those who defend the nation.” Andy’s transition from the military to the defense industry is marked by direct engagement with both warfighters and developers. He spent over ten years refining and executing complex tactics, techniques and procedures as a warfighter, and now, as a UI

UX engineer he leverages this experience to drive a fundamental advancement of the GMD Fire Control system engagement strategies. His approach breaks traditional barriers by facilitating real-time problem solving and feedback loops, enabling the warfighter to have a significant amount of automation and control over how GFC fights the battle. Under Andy’s influence, the team advances command and control systems that integrate mixed fleets of interceptors, both existing Ground Based Interceptors and future NGIs. These improvements enhance launch systems and in-flight communication through advanced phased-array antenna technology, ensuring seamless coordination and rapid response in missile defense scenarios. These innovative methods enable Northrop Grumman to accelerate capability development, closely aligning technology fields with evolving operational needs. “Engaging with warfighters side by side, we get immediate insights to refine systems and solve problems out of cycle,” Andy said. “This kind of collaboration drives the speed and effectiveness of what we field.” Northrop Grumman’s defense of the homeland depends heavily on skilled individuals like Andy who bridge the gap between frontline experience and technical innovation. His background underscores the importance of ground-up knowledge in developing reliable, next-generation missile defense solutions. Working alongside a network of nearly 12,000 U.S.-based suppliers and multidisciplinary teams, Andy and his colleagues ensure that critical technologies seamlessly integrate into the broader missile defense ecosystem, tackling emerging threats with agility and precision. “Bringing operator experience into system development not only improves capability but also honors the service of those who stand ready to defend,” Andy said. “It’s a privilege to contribute to this mission each day.”