The US Navy has signed a new agreement with Northrop Grumman for the maintenance and technical support of the AN / AQS-24 mine detection system. Under the deal, which will amount to US $ 9.9 million, Northrop Grumman Undersea Systems will continue to provide maintenance, technical support, logistical support and documentation support for the systems in question.

Helicopter towed AN / AQS-24 is a SONAR interfaced mine hunting system that provides detection and classification of oceanic mines with acoustic or laser payloads. The AN / AQS-24, which is usually used with MH-53 helicopters, can also use by towing with appropriate boats.