Northrop Grumman reports it has produced the 50,000th G-2000 tactical gyroscope, which is used on U.S. missiles and other systems.

The gyroscope is billed by the company as the world's smallest tactical grade, dynamically-tuned gyroscope in production.

It has been produced at the company's facility in Utah since the 1990s. In addition to its use for missile and torpedo guidance, it is also used for pointing and stabilization of electro-optical/infrared cameras, antennas, periscopes and radars.

"The G-2000 offers high performance and reliability at an affordable cost," said Bob Mehltretter, vice president, Navigation and Positioning Systems, Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems. "It's the gold standard for miniature, dynamically-tuned gyros due to its higher engineering and exceptional consistency of quality, manufacture and delivery.

"Although the gyro is small in size, its impact has been huge due to its role in national security and saving lives."

Northrop said it is introducing a new system based on the G 2000 next year.