E-2D Advanced Hawkeye reaches IOC with US Navy
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft has reached initial operational capability (IOC) with the US Navy, and the first operational squadron is now preparing for deployment.
The E-2D is the newest and most technologically advanced carrier-based variant of the E-2 Hawkeye airborne early warning command and control (AEW&C) platform.
The aircraft has been designed by Northrop Grumman to provide 360-degree surveillance, with the new AN/APY-9 radar system allowing the warfighter to ‘see’ a greater number of targets at much greater distances. It also features new avionics and a glass cockpit.
Capt. Drew Basden, commander, Airborne Command Control and Logistics Wing, said: ‘This significant milestone is a result of the strong partnership between the fleet, the acquisition community and our industry partner. By achieving IOC, we can effectively deploy the E-2D for operational missions and continue our successful transition from the E-2C Hawkeye.’
Capt. John S. Lemmon, program manager, E-2/C-2 Airborne Tactical Data System Program Office (PMA-231), added: ‘Since the first E-2D Advanced Hawkeye delivery in 2007, every aircraft has been, and continues to be, delivered on cost and on schedule. The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye represents a revolutionary jump in capabilities. I'm confident that the E-2D will continue to be ready, relevant and capable for decades to come and continue serving the Navy Carrier Strike Group with distinction.’
The US Navy's E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program of record is for 75 aircraft. Fifteen production aircraft have been delivered by Northrop Grumman to date.
More from Digital Battlespace
-
Wave Relay devices cleared for security use on commercial systems in industry trend
Persistent Systems has been cleared by National Security Agency (NSA) to transmit sensitive data on commercial networks. The devices are added to the NSA’s Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) component list which also includes other companies’ products providing the same security.
-
UK teases cyber spending boost in Strategic Defence Review ahead of “imminent” release
The release of the UK’s Strategic Defence Review (SDR) has been long promised as mid-year. It is possible it could be as early as 2 June although the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) continues to play its cards close to its chest.
-
Intelsat emphasises SATCOM resilience for SOF in contested domains (video)
Intelsat outlines how its multi-orbit SATCOM architecture is enhancing connectivity and resilience for special operations forces operating in degraded and contested environments.
-
US Space Force’s next-generation missile warning system moves forward with $500 million in new contracts
Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) satellites are intended to provide early warning of missile launches from any location worldwide and new ground stations will result in expanded coverage of critical missile warning.
-
Airbus launches final CSO observation satellite for French Armed Forces
Airbus was awarded the Composante Spatiale Optique (CSO) contract at the end of 2010. This included an option for a third satellite, which was activated after Germany joined the programme in 2015.
-
Intelligence advantage: How real-time GEOINT is reshaping military decision-making (Studio)
In today’s contested operational environment, adaptability is key. The new Geospatial-Intelligence as a Service (GEO IaaS) solution from Fujitsu and MAIAR empowers militaries by enabling intelligence advantage, combining advanced technology with human expertise to deliver actionable insights.