ACCOUNTING STANDARDS UPDATES [Abstract] Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] 2. ACCOUNTING STANDARDS UPDATES FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS [Abstract] Fair Value Of Financial Instruments Abstract. Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] 3. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS DIVIDENDS ON COMMON STOCK [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] 4. DIVIDENDS ON COMMON STOCK BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS [Abstract] Business Acquisitions And Dispositions Abstract Business Acquisitions And Dispositions Disclosure Text Block 5. BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS Description of a business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities, and disclosure of the facts and circumstances leading to the completed or expected disposal, manner and timing of disposal, the gain or loss recognized in the income statement and the income statement caption that includes that gain or loss, amounts of revenues and pretax profit or loss reported in discontinued operations, the segment in which the disposal group was reported, and the classification (whether sold or classified as held for sale) and carrying value of the assets and liabilities comprising the disposal group. Includes all disposal groups, including those classified as components of the entity (discontinued operations). SEGMENT INFORMATION [Abstract] Segment Information Abstract. 7. SEGMENT INFORMATION Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] EARNINGS PER SHARE [Abstract] Earnings Per Share (Numeric) [Abstract] GOODWILL AND OTHER PURCHASED INTANGIBLE ASSETS [Abstract] Goodwill And Other Purchased Intangible Assets Abstract. 9. GOODWILL AND OTHER PURCHASED INTANGIBLE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] INVESTIGATIONS, CLAIMS AND LITIGATION [Abstract] 10. INVESTIGATIONS, CLAIMS AND LITIGATION Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency [Text Block] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies Abstract. 11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] RETIREMENT BENEFITS [Abstract] 12. RETIREMENT BENEFITS Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] STOCK COMPENSATION PLANS [Abstract] Stock Compensation Plans (Amounts in Paragraphs) 13. STOCK COMPENSATION PLANS Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] INCOME TAXES [Abstract] 14. INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Dividends on Common Stock (Details) [Abstract] Common Stock Dividends And Conversion Of Preferred Stock Details. Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Quarterly common stock dividend Cash dividends declared per share Business Acquisitions and Dispositions (Details) [Abstract] Business Acquisitions And Dispositions Details Abstract. Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Statement [Table] Schedule of Share Repurchases, by Program [Table] Statement [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price, Total Purchase price for acquisition Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss) Other comprehensive income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net earnings (from above) Net earnings Net earnings Weighted-average diluted shares outstanding, in millions Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Diluted Earnings Per Share Diluted earnings per share Earnings Per Share, Diluted Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Basic Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per share Earnings Per Share, Basic Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Outstanding Share, Total Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Earnings from discontinued operations, net of tax Earnings from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Total Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Federal and foreign income taxes Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Cumulative Effects of Changes in Accounting Principles, Noncontrolling Interest, Total Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Cumulative Effects of Changes in Accounting Principles, Noncontrolling Interest Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Interest expense Interest and Debt Expense, Total Interest and Debt Expense Operating Income (Loss) Operating income Total operating income Total operating income Cost of Sales and Service Revenues General and administrative expenses General and Administrative Expense Cost of service revenues Cost of Services, Total Cost of Services Cost of product sales Cost of Goods Sold, Total Cost of Goods Sold Sales and Service Revenues Abstract Sales Revenue, Net Total sales and service revenues Total sales and service revenues Service revenues Sales Revenue, Services, Net Product sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net, Total Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Shareholders' Equity [Abstract] Liabilities [Abstract] Assets [Abstract] Total assets Assets Miscellaneous other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Long-term deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent, Total Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Pension and post-retirement plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Net carrying amount Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill), Total Other purchased intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $1,943 in 2010 and $1,871 in 2009 Goodwill Balance as of June 30, 2010 Balance as of December 31, 2009 Goodwill Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Ending Balance Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Beginning Balance Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Total Property, plant, and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $4,608 in 2010 and $4,216 in 2009 Total current assets Assets, Current, Total Assets, Current Prepaid expenses and other current assets Other Assets, Current Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current, Total Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current, Beginning Balance Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current, Ending Balance Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Inventoried costs, net of progress payments Inventory for Long-term Contracts or Programs Accounts receivable, net of progress payments Receivables, Long-term Contracts or Programs, Total Receivables, Long-term Contracts or Programs Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value, Total Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Total liabilities and shareholders' equity Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Total shareholders' equity At beginning of period At end of period Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Ending Balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Beginning Balance Total accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated other comprehensive loss Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit), Total Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit), Beginning Balance Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit), Ending Balance Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Common Stock, Value, Issued Common Stock, Value, Issued, Ending Balance Common Stock, Value, Issued, Beginning Balance Total Value upon issuance Common Stock, Value, Issued, Total Common stock, $1 par value; 800,000,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding: 2010 - 292,228,109; 2009 - 306,865,201 Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies (Note 11) Total liabilities Liabilities Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Pension and post-retirement plan liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent, Total Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Long-term debt, net of current portion Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Total Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current, Total Liabilities, Current Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Advance payments and billings in excess of costs incurred Customer Advances, Current Accrued employees' compensation Employee-related Liabilities, Current, Total Employee-related Liabilities, Current Trade accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current, Total Accounts Payable, Current Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current, Total Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Notes payable to banks Notes Payable, Current, Total Notes Payable, Current Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated depreciation on property, plant, and equipment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Accumulated amortization Accumulated Amortization Accumulated amortization on other purchased intangibles Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued, Total Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Beginning Balance Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Ending Balance Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position [Abstract] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION (Parenthetical) (Unaudited) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION (Unaudited) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited) Paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock, Beginning Balance Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock, Ending Balance Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Financing Activities Investing Activities Operating Activities Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Total (Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Common stock repurchases Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Dividends paid Payments of Dividends, Common Stock Proceeds from exercises of stock options and issuances of common stock Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity, Total Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Net borrowings under lines of credit Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt, Total Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Other investing activities, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Additions to property, plant, and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment, Total Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net cash provided by operating activities Cash provided by discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations, Total Cash provided by continuing operations Uses of Cash Continuing Operations Payments for Operating Activities Total uses of cash - continuing operations Total uses of cash - continuing operations Payments for Operating Activities, Total Payments for Other Operating Activities Other cash payments Other cash payments Other cash payments Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation Income Taxes Paid, Net Income taxes paid, net of refunds received Interest paid, net of interest received Interest paid, net of interest received The amount of cash paid for interest on money borrowed, including capitalized interest , net of interest received on loans and other debt instruments during the current period. Payments to Suppliers and Employees Cash paid to suppliers and employees Cash Received From Customers [Abstract] Cash received from customers Cash received from customers abstract. Total sources of cash - continuing operations Proceeds from Operating Activities Other cash receipts Proceeds from Other Operating Activities Collections on billings Proceeds from Customers Progress payments Proceeds from Customers for Progress Payments Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities Increase (decrease) in Other non-cash transactions, net Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Other Retiree benefits Increase (Decrease) in Pension and Postretirement Obligations, Total Increase (Decrease) in Pension and Postretirement Obligations Income taxes payable Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Income Taxes Payable Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Deferred income taxes Accounts payable and accruals Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Total Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Increase in (Increase) decrease in Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid, Deferred Expense and Other Assets Prepaid expenses and other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Inventoried costs, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Accounts receivable, net Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation, Total Share-based Compensation Amortization of assets Amortization, Total Amortization Depreciation Depreciation, Total Depreciation Reconciliation of Net Earnings to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Adjustments to reconcile to net cash provided by operating activities Interest expense Additions to property, plant, and equipment Other investing activities, net Dividends paid Common stock repurchases Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity [Abstract] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Common Stock [Member] Common Stock Additional Paid In Capital [Member] Paid-in Capital Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Dividends, Common Stock Dividends declared Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation Employee stock awards and options Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Common stock repurchased Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Weighted-average common shares outstanding, in millions Weighted-average common shares outstanding, in millions Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Liabilities Assets Shareholders' Equity Uses of Cash - Continuing Operations Income Taxes (Detail) [Abstract] Income Taxes (Detail) [Abstract] Income Taxes. Effective tax rate on income from continuing operations Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Total Income Taxes (Numeric) [Abstract] Income Taxes (Amounts in paragraphs) Income Taxes. Cost of Sales and Service Revenues Sales and Service Revenues Reconciliation of Net Earnings to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Investing Activities Financing Activities Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities, Total Principal payments of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities Payments Outsourcing Contract Costs Payments for outsourcing contract costs and related software costs The cash outflow associated with the costs (including related software costs) incurred for direct and incremental one-time setup activities of information technology outsourcing-type contracts. Payments for outsourcing contract costs and related software costs Other Comprehensive Income Available For Sale Securities Adjustment Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease And Other Comprehensive Income Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease Change in unrealized gain on marketable securities and cash flow hedges, net of tax Adjustment for the net of tax effect of the gross appreciation or the gross loss in value of the total unsold securities at the end of an accounting period as well as the net of tax effect change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges after taxes. A cash flow hedge is a hedge of the exposure to variability in the cash flows of a recognized asset or liability or a forecasted transaction that is attributable to a particular risk. The change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gains or losses. Change in cumulative translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Total Other Comprehensive Income, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment, Net of Tax Change in unamortized benefit plan costs, net of tax Change in unamortized benefit plan costs, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive income, net of tax Other comprehensive income, net of tax Commitments and Contingencies (Details) [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies (Details) [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Details Abstract. Commitments and Contingencies Numeric Abstract Commitments and Contingencies (Amounts in Paragraphs) Commitments and Contingencies Numeric Abstract. Standby Unused Letters Of Credit Unused standby letters of credit Financial instruments issued by a bank, on behalf of the company and in favor of a beneficiary, which substitutes the bank's credit worthiness for that of the company. Letters of Credit are usually issued in conformance with a set of governing rules. Bank Guarantee Bank guarantees Financial instruments issued by a bank, on behalf of the company and in favor of a beneficiary, which substitutes the bank's credit worthiness for that of the company. Surety Bond Outstanding Surety bonds outstanding Financial instruments issued by an insurance company, on behalf of the company and in favor of a beneficiary, which substitutes the insurance company's credit worthiness for that of the company. Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current Environmental liabilities recorded in other current liabilities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Cumulative translation adjustment Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Debt Instrument, Fair Value Fair values of long-term debt Fair values of long-term debt Long-term debt Long-term debt Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements Disclosure And Comprehensive Income Disclosure Text Block 1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION This item describes the entire organization, consolidation and basis of presentation of financial statements disclosure and provides a summary of the ending accumulated balances for each component of comprehensive income. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Net of Tax Unamortized benefit plan costs, net of tax benefit of $1,909 as of September 30, 2010, and $1,984 as of December 31, 2009 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Net of Tax, Ending Balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Net of Tax, Beginning Balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Available For Sale Securities Adjustment Net Of Tax And Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Cumulative Changes In Net Gain Loss From Cash Flow Hedges Effect Net Of Tax Net unrealized gain on marketable securities and cash flow hedges, net of tax expense of $3 as of September 30, 2010, and December 31, 2009 The accumulated appreciation or loss, net of tax, in value of the total of unsold securities at the end of an accounting period and the accumulated change, net of tax, in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gains or losses. Segment Information (Details) [Abstract] Segment Information (Details) [Abstract] Segment Information. Technical Services [Member] Technical Services reporting segment. Shipbuilding [Member] Shipbuilding reporting segment. Information Systems [Member] Information Systems reporting segment. Electronic Systems [Member] Electronic Systems reporting segment. Aerospace Systems [Member] Aerospace Systems reporting segment. Operating Income (Table Amounts) Segment Reporting, Income before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Discontinued Operations, and Cumulative Effect [Abstract] Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Shares repurchased Stock Repurchased And Retired Under Authorization Total shares retired Total shares retired under this authorization. Retirement Benefits (Table) [Abstract] Retirement Benefits (Amounts in paragraphs) Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Text Block] Cost of pension plans and medical and life benefits plans Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Prior service cost (credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Net loss from previous years Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Defined contribution plans cost Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Employer contributions Retirement Benefits (Table Amounts) Retirement Benefits (Table Amounts) Retirement Benefits. Amortization Of Prior Service Cost And Losses Abstract Amortization of: Amortization of Prior Service Cost and Losses. Net loss from previous years Expected return on plan assets Pension Benefits [Member] Medical and Life Benefits [Member] Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Dilutive effect of stock options and other stock awards granted Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive stock options Segment Reporting Information, Revenue [Abstract] Sales and Service Revenues (Table Amounts) Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Axis] Reporting Segment [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures, Defined Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans [Domain] Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Text Block] Goodwill and Other Purchased Intangible Assets (Details) [Abstract] Goodwill and other purchased intangible assets. Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Text Block] Purchased intangible assets Other Purchased Intangibles [Member] Other intangible assets having a finite beneficial life acquired in a business combination or other transaction. Other Purchased Intangibles Contract and Program Intangibles [Member] An intangible asset having a finite beneficial life acquired in a business combination or other transaction representing an order or production or production backlog arising from contracts such as purchase or sales orders. Contract and Program Intangibles Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross, Total Gross carrying amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] Expected amortization for the year ending December 31 (Table Amounts) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Purchased Intangible Assets (Table Amounts) Future Amortization Expense Remaining Year 2010 (October 1 - December 31) The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized for the remainder of the fiscal year following the balance sheet date. Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2011 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2012 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2013 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2014 Future Amortization Expense, Year Five 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Weighted Average UsefulLifeed Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life, Total Weighted-average useful life for purchased intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Aggregate amortization expense Stock Compensation Plans (Table) [Abstract] Stock Compensation Plans. Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Text Block] Rollforward Activity Dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Volatility rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected option life (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Shares under option - outstanding at September 30, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Shares under option - outstanding at January 1, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period Shares under option - granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Shares under option - exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Shares under option - cancelled and forfeited Shares under option - vested and expected to vest in the future at September 30, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Shares under option - exercisable at September 30, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Shares under option - available for grant at September 30, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Weighted-average exercise price - outstanding at September 30, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price - outstanding at January 1, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price - cancelled and forfeited Weighted-average exercise price - vested and expected to vest in the future at September 30, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price - exercisable at September 30, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value - outstanding at September 30, 2010 Aggregate intrinsic value - outstanding at January 1, 2010 Aggregate intrinsic value - vested and expected to vest in the future at September 30, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value - exercisable at September 30, 2010 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price - granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price - exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Stock awards - outstanding at September 30 Stock awards - outstanding at January 1 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Stock Awards granted Stock awards - granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Stock awards - vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Stock awards - forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant date fair value - outstanding at September 30 Weighted-average grant date fair value - outstanding at January 1 Weighted-average grant date fair value - granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant date fair value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant date fair value - vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant date fair value - forfeited Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Stock Compensation Plans (Details) [Abstract] Stock Compensation Plans. Stock Awards Plan [Member] A non-stock option share-based compensation plan (for example, phantom stock plan, stock appreciation rights plan, revenue or profit achievement stock award plan) for which the employer is contingently obligated to issue equity instruments or transfer assets to an employee who has not yet satisfied service or performance criteria necessary to gain title to proceeds from the sale of the award or underlying shares. Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Unrecognized Compensation Costs on Nonvested Awards, Weighted Average Period of Recognition Weighted-average period for unrecognized compensation expense to be charged to expense (years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Unrecognized Compensation Costs on Nonvested Awards Unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested awards Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options Realized tax benefits from exercise of stock options Total pre-tax stock-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Total Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Tax benefits recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for stock-based compensation Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Weighted-average grant date fair value of stock options granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Other Expense Income Abstract Other (expense) income Other Expense Income. Total intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited) Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill (Table Amounts) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Assumptions Relating To The Valuation of Stock Options (Table Amounts) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Stock Option Activity (Table Amounts) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Stock Award Activity (Table Amounts) Sources of Cash - Continuing Operations Proceeds from Operating Activities [Abstract] Business Acquisition One [Member] Sonoma Photonics, Inc and Swift Engineering's Killer Bee Unmanned Air Systems [Member] Business combination that occurred during the period. Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information. Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Notional value of interest rate swaps Notional Amount of Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Derivatives Notional Amount Of Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments Purchase Contracts Notional value of foreign currency purchase forward contracts not designated as hedging instruments Aggregate notional amount of foreign currency derivatives, not designated as hedging instruments, to purchase a foreign currency. Notional amount refers to the number of currency units specified in the foreign currency derivative contract. Notional Amount Of Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments Sale Contracts Notional value of foreign currency sale forward contracts not designated as hedging instruments Aggregate notional amount of foreign currency derivatives, not designated as hedging instruments, to sell a foreign currency. Notional amount refers to the number of currency units specified in the foreign currency derivative contract. Sales and service revenues by segment Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Text Block] Reconciliation of segment operating income to total operating income Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Text Block] Share Repurchases Text Block Share Repurchases The repurchase and immediate retirement of an entity's own shares on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. Amount Authorized For Share Repurchases Amount authorized Amount authorized by the company's board of directors for share repurchases. Loan Guarantee For Subsidiary Guarantee for Shipbuilding loan (Go Zone Bond) Guarantee by company to make payments of principal and interest to a lender on another party's debt if that party fails to comply with the terms of the borrowing arrangement. Operating Leases, Rent Expense Rental expense for operating leases, excluding discontinued operations and net of immaterial amounts of sublease rental income Defined Benefit Plan Voluntary Pension Contributions By Employer Voluntary employer pension contributions The amount of discretionary contributions made by the employer that is above the contributions required by funding regulations or laws. Percent Cash Match Of Employee Contribution Maximum percentage of employee compensation eligible for cash matching of employee contributions The maximum percentage of compensation the employer will contribute in order to match an employee's contribution to the plan. Assumptions For Valuation Of Stock Options Text Block Assumptions relating to valuation of stock options Describes the significant assumptions used to calculate the weighted-average fair value under which share based compensation is awarded to employees. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Nonvested Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted-average remaining contractual term - outstanding at September 30 (years) Weighted-average remaining contractual term - outstanding at January 1 (years) Weighted-average remaining contractual term - outstanding at January 1 (years) The weighted average period between the balance-sheet date and vesting of stock awards outstanding under the plan, which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years. BASIS OF PRESENTATION [Abstract] Basis Of Presentation. 8. EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings Per Share (Details) [Abstract] Earnings Per Share Details Abstract. Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Number Of Shares Available For Grant Stock awards - available for grant at September 30 The difference between the maximum number of shares authorized for issuance under the plan (including the effects of amendments and adjustments), and the sum of: 1) the number of shares already issuable for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements, to receive certain shares or retain shares, other instruments, or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement , and 2) shares reserved for issuance on granting of outstanding awards, net of cancellations and forfeitures, if applicable. Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Capital expenditures accrued in accounts payable Average future service period of employees The average number of years of future service from employees over which the excess net actuarial gains or losses are amortized to expense. Average future service period of employees Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Noncurrent Environmental liabilities recorded in other long-term liabilities Defined Benefit Plan Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net Gains Losses After Tax Net after-tax actuarial loss The net actuarial (gain) loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan(s) because they have yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost, net of tax. Hurricane [Axis] Hurricane Axis. Hurricane [Domain] Hurricane. Hurricane Two [Member] Hurricane Ike [Member] Hurricane Two Member. Hurricane One Member Hurricane Gustav [Member] Hurricane One Member. Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Operating Activities Insurance proceeds on Hurricane Ike claim Low-end of the range of reasonably possible future costs for environmental remediation sites Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Minimum Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum High-end of the range of reasonably possible future costs for environmental remediation sites Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Expected employer contributions Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Fair Value Assumptions Expected Term For Non Executives Expected option life for non-executives (years) The period of time a share-based award, for non-executives, is expected to be outstanding. A share-based award's expected term shall be determined based on, among other factors, the instrument's contractual term and the effects of employees' expected exercise and post-vesting employment termination behavior. An entity is required to aggregate individual awards into relatively homogeneous groups. Goodwill by Segment [Axis] Goodwill, Segment [Domain] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Numeric Abstract Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Amounts in paragraphs) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Amounts in Paragraph) [Abstract] Fair Value of Financial Instruments. Fair Value Assets and Liabilites Measured On Recurring Basis Abstract Investments in Marketable Securities Goodwill And Other Purchased Intangible Assets Numeric [Abstract] Additional disclosure on Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Amounts in Paragraphs) Goodwill and Other Purchased Intangible Assets. Loss Contingency Amount Claimed For Revocation Of Acceptance Amount claimed by U.S. Coast Guard for revocation of acceptance The risk of loss associated with a customer's revocation of acceptance for contract completion / deliveries. Loss Contingency Claim For Reimbursement Of Previously Advanced Reinsurance Amount claimed by Munich Re for reimbursement of previously advanced reinsurance amounts The risk of loss associated with an insurance company's claim on previously advanced insurance settlement proceeds. Loss Contingency Claim For Adjustment Expenses Incurred Amount claimed by Munich Re for incurred adjustment expenses The risk of loss associated with an insurance company's claim for expenses incurred associated with disputed insurance coverage. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted-average remaining contractual term - outstanding at September 30, 2010 (Years) Weighted-average remaining contractual term - outstanding at January 1, 2010 (Years) Weighted-average remaining contractual term - vested and expected to vest in the future at September 30, 2010 (Years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted-average remaining contractual term - exercisable at September 30, 2010 (Years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation Common stock issued to employees in settlement of prior year stock awards that were fully vested Stock Issued During Period Issuance Date Fair Value Share Based Compensation Fair value of common stock issued - issuance date The fair value, at the time of issuance, of shares issued during the reporting period as a result of any share-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Stock Issued During Period Grant Date Fair Value Share Based Compensation Fair value of common stock issued - grant date The fair value, at the time of grant, for shares issued during the reporting period as a result of any share-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority Reduction in provision for income taxes and liability for uncertainty tax provisions Future Amortization For Purchased Intangibles Text Block Expected amortization for purchased intangibles The estimated amortization expense for each of the five succeeding years for purchased intangible assets subject to amortization. Proceeds From Sale Of Business Discontinued Operations Proceeds from disposition The proceeds associated with the amount received from the sale of a portion of the company's business, for example a segment, division, branch or other business, during the period. Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Total Gain on sale of disposition Non-segment factors affecting operating income [Domain] Royalty income adjustment [Member] Royalty Income Adjustment Member. Net pension adjustment [Member] Net Pension Adjustment Member. Unallocated expense [Member] Unallocated Expense Member. Intersegment eliminations [Member] Share Repurchases Abstract Share Repurchases (Table Amounts) Share Repurchases Abstract. Share Repurchases, by Program [Axis] Share repurchase program reported by authorization date. Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share repurchase program reported by authorization date. Share Repurchases Average Price Per Share Average price per share Average price paid per share under this authorization. Share Repurchases Amount Remaining Under Authorization Amount remaining under authorization for share repurchases Amount remaining under the authorization. Calculated as total amount authorized less amount spent on share repurchases to date. Percentage Threshold Net Actuarial Gains Losses Subject To Amortization Percentage threshold for excess gains or losses that are subject to amortization The US GAAP specified percentage of the greater of plan assets or projected benefit obligations by benefit plan over which the net actuarial gain or loss are subject to amortization to expense. Summary of Derivative Instruments by Risk Exposure [Abstract] Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities Marketable Securities, Current Marketable Securities, Current, Total Fair value of marketable securities in prepaid expenses and other current assets Marketable Securities, Noncurrent Marketable Securities, Noncurrent, Total Fair value of marketable securities in miscellaneous other assets Notional Amount Of Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Designated As Hedging Instruments Purchase Contracts Notional value of foreign currency purchase forward contracts Aggregate notional amount of foreign currency derivatives, designated as hedging instruments, to purchase a foreign currency. Notional amount refers to the number of currency units specified in the foreign currency derivative contract. Notional Amount Of Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Designated As Hedging Instruments Sale Contracts Notional value of foreign currency sale forward contracts Aggregate notional amount of foreign currency derivatives, designated as hedging instruments, to sell a foreign currency. Notional amount refers to the number of currency units specified in the foreign currency derivative contract. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Table Amounts) [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Parenthetical Abstract Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Parenthetical) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Parenthetical Abstract. Basis Of Presentation Text Block Basis of presentation Description of the basis of accounting used to prepare the financial statements (for example, U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, Other Comprehensive Basis of Accounting, IFRS). Accounting Estimates Text Block Accounting estimates Provides an entity's explanation that the preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires the use of management estimates. Reclassifications Text Block Reclassifications Classifications in the current financial statements may be different from classifications in the prior year's financial statements. Disclose any material changes in classification including an explanation of the reason for the change and the areas impacted. Consolidation, Policy [Text Block] Principles of consolidation Share Repurchase [Line Items] Share Repurchase Line Items. Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Payments for businesses purchased Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired, Total Payments for businesses purchased Basis of Presentation (Table) [Abstract] Basis Of Presentation Table Abstract. Segment Information (Table) [Abstract] Segment Information Table Abstract Share Repurchases (Table) [Abstract] Goodwill And Other Purchased Intangible Assets (Table) [Abstract] Goodwill And Other Purchased Intangible Assets Table Abstract. Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Abstract] Diluted Earnings Per Share (Amounts in Paragraphs) Goodwill [Line Items] Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Defined Contribution Plans Disclosure (Amounts in paragraphs) Schedule of Share Repurchases, by Program [Table] A table reflecting activity in a share repurchase program. Schedule of Share Repurchases, by Program [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Table Text Block Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss This element reports the balances of components within accumulated other comprehensive loss. Net Unrealized Gain On Marketable Securities And Cash Flow Hedges Tax Tax expense on net unrealized gain on marketable securities and cash flow hedges Tax on the accumulated appreciation or loss in value of the total of unsold securities, and the accumulated change in gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges at the end of an accounting period. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Defined Benefit Pension And Other Postretirement Plans Tax Tax benefit on unamortized benefit plan costs Tax on the unamortized total of net (gain) loss, prior service cost (credit), and transition assets (obligations), as well as minimum pension liability if still remaining, associated with defined benefit pension or other postretirement plans. Common Stock Dividends Numeric Abstract Dividends on Common Stock (Amounts in paragraphs) Common Stock Dividends Numeric. Business Acquisitions Numeric Abstract Acquisitions (Amounts in Paragraphs) Business Acquisitions Numeric. Business Disposition One [Member] Advisory Services Division [Member] Businss disposition that occurred during the period. Dispositions Numeric Abstract Dispositions (Amounts in Paragraphs) Dispositions Numeric. Share Repurchase Program One Total Authorization [Member] December 19, 2007 Program - Total Authorization [Member] Share repurchase program. Earnings Per Share Numeric Abstract Share Repurchases (Amounts in Paragraphs) Earnings Per Share Numeric. Collectibillity Of Insurance Receivables Amount owed by Munich Re to Northrop Grumman Risk Management, Inc. The risk of loss associated with an insurance company's dispute on insurance claim receivables. Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] SHIPBUILDING STRATEGIC ACTIONS [Abstract] Restructuring. 6. SHIPBUILDING STRATEGIC ACTIONS Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Pension Contributions Pension contributions Pension contributions Shipbuilding Strategic Actions (Amounts in Paragraph) [Abstract] Restructuring Details. Segment Consolidation Charges Estimated Total Shipbuilding consolidation related charge estimated total Estimate of total charges for anticipated reductions in productivity as a result of the Shipbuilding segment consolidation decision. Segment Consolidation Charge Shipbuilding consolidation related charge Income statement charge for anticipated reductions in productivity as a result of the Shipbuilding segment consolidation decision. Cash Surrender Value Life Insurance Policies Abstract Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Policies Cash Surrender Value Life Insurance Policies. Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Cash surrender value of life insurance policies Long-term Debt, Gross Carrying values of long-term debt Goodwill, Impaired [Abstract] Goodwill (Amounts in Paragraph) Goodwill Accumulated Impairment Accumulated goodwill impairment losses Accumulated goodwill impairment losses The accumulated amount of impairment on goodwill loss as of the balance sheet date resulting from the write-down of goodwill after comparing the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. Goodwill is assessed at least annually for impairment. Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions Recognition of net tax benefits, as a result of the settlement Tax Adjustments Settlements And Unusual Provisions In Cash Recognition of net tax benefits, as a result of the settlement, in cash Reflects the cash inflow from the effects of adjustments of previously recorded tax expense, significant settlements of income tax disputes, and unusual tax positions or infrequent actions taken by the entity, including tax assessment reversal, IRS tax settlement and unusual repatriation of foreign earnings. Loan Guarantee For Subsidiary Two Guarantee for Shipbuilding loan (Industrial Revenue Bond) Guarantee by company to make payments of principal and interest to a lender on another party's debt if that party fails to comply with the terms of the borrowing arrangement. Share Repurchase Program Two Original Authorization [Member] June 16, 2010 Program - Original Authorization [Member] Share repurchase program. Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract] Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt, Total Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Subtotal Segments [Member] Total of the reportable segments. Long-Term Debt, by Instrument [Table] Long-Term Debt, by Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Domain] Debt Issuance One [Member] $350 Million Note due 2014 [Member] Issuance of $350 Million unsecured senior obligation. Debt Issuance Two [Member] $500 Million Note due 2019 [Member] Issuance of $500 Million unsecured senior obligation. Debt Retirement [Member] $400 Million Note retired in 2009 [Member] Retirement of $400 Million unsecured senior obligation. Debt Issuance Information, by Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Face Amount Gulf Opportunity Zone Industrial Revenue Bonds Face amount of debt Stated interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Segment Reporting, Reconciling Items for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Axis] Significant Accounting Policies Debt Instrument Term To Maturity Term to maturity (Years) The stated number of years from the date the debt instrument was issued to the date when the debt instrument is scheduled to be fully repaid. Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Sales of disposition Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) Operating income of disposition Investigations, Claims and Litigation (Details) [Abstract] Investigations Claims and Litigation Details Abstract. Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies By Name [Axis] Loss Contingency by Name of Party Quantifies and describes each loss contingency that exists as of the balance sheet date, by name of the other party in the investigation, claim or litigation. Loss Contingency Name [Domain] Loss Contingency, Name Name of other party in the investigation, claim or litigation. Loss Contingency Name One [Member] U.S. Coast Guard [Member] U.S. Coast Guard customer. Loss Contingency Name Two [Member] Munich Re [Member] Munich Re insurance company. Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Vesting period of stock options Stock Option Plan [Member] A stock option share-based compensation plan for which the employer is contingently obligated to issue equity to an employee, including vested options. Derivatives, Policy [Text Block] Derivative financial instruments Environmental Costs Policy Text Block Environmental costs Describes an entity's accounting policy for obligations that resulted from improper or other-than normal operation of a long-lived asset in the past. This accounting policy may address (1) whether the related remediation costs are expensed or capitalized, (2) whether the obligation is measured on a discounted basis, (3) the event, situation, or set of circumstances that generally triggers recognition of loss contingencies arising from the entity's environmental remediation-related obligations, and (4) the timing of recognition of any recoveries. Share Based Compensation Option And Incentive Plans Policy Text Block Stock compensation This element describes an entity's accounting policy for stock option and stock incentive plans. This disclosure may include (1) the types of stock option or incentive plans sponsored by the entity (2) the groups that participate in (or are covered by) each plan (3) significant plan provisions and (4) how stock compensation is measured, and the methodologies and significant assumptions used to determine that measurement.