Marvel’s partnership with one of the nation’s biggest defense contractors is seemingly cancelled after facing some backlash. Earlier, Marvel published a custom edition comic in partnership with Northrop Grumman. Here is the synopsis:
When RED RONIN emerges from the Hudson, the Avengers assemble to stop his destructive march toward New York City. But when the mechanical behemoth proves to be a match with seriously upgraded technology, a call for assistance goes out to a new super group. Northrop Grumman’s Elite Nexus is a team of scientists who specialize in cutting edge, hi-tech adventures. The new squad of heavy hitters, known as N.G.E.N. rushes in to assist the Avengers. But who could be behind Red Ronin’s mysterious attack?
Marvel will often partner with companies to produce custom comics to promote various businesses. Custom comics have been made for such things as Lexus, Disney Parks, and various charities. This promotional comic was scheduled to be distributed at New York Comic Con, however it seems that it was never released. The comic was available online but it has since been pulled.
Marvel did tease some sort of announcement at 3pm on Saturday but has since tweeted that the event has been cancelled.
Northrop Grumman describes itself as a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions to government and commercial customers worldwide, offering an extraordinary portfolio of capabilities and technologies for applications from undersea to outer space and into cyberspace.
Marvel did face some backlash on social media for working with an organization tied to the Department of Defense. Here are some examples:
It is unknown why the partnership was seemingly cancelled, but it appears that Marvel might have a made a bad PR move.