I'm pretty skeptical of the given reason of “cost growth stemming from evolving Lunar Gateway architecture and mission requirements combined with macroeconomic challenges". IMO this is more indicative of Northrop not having the needed engineering talent to run their programs.
The article goes on to mention that Northrop took part in creating the design and architecture of the lunar Gateway under an earlier cost plus contract, which seems at odds with the idea that architecture cost growth was out of their control.
In the end, this is why you hire and retain skilled IC talent. So you can utilize their experience and insight to discover hidden issues and better technology paths before things leave the drawing board.
