| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 03, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 3, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | CURTISS-WRIGHT CORPORATION |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-00134 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 13-0612970 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 130 Harbour Place Drive |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 300 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Davidson |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NC |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 28036 |
| City Area Code | 704 |
| Local Phone Number | 869-4600 |
| Entity Information, Former Legal or Registered Name | Not applicable |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000026324 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | CW |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
