Planned upgrades are on track for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, Northrop Grumman’s carrier-capable early warning and command-and-control (AEW&C) aircraft.
The NG aircraft is used by both the United States and French navies on their aircraft carriers. The AN/APY-9 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar in its rotating top dome provides 360-degree tracking of low-observable targets including cruise missiles, drones and stealth aircraft.
Its Naval Integrated Fire Control – Counter Air (NIFC-CA) system also relays targeting data to ships and fighter jets, allowing them to engage threats at longer range.
The Block II upgrade to the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft has just passed its critical design review, as per NG, meaning the programme can move into in-flight testing. This is currently scheduled for 2029, with delivery of the first operational systems to fleets earmarked for the following year.
The upgrades include fully overhauled cockpit avionics, and enhanced electronic processing and counter-jamming capabilities. They also feature an open system, vendor-agnostic architecture meaning operators can independently swap software or subsystems without the need for full redesigns.
NG VP and E-2D Advanced Hawkeye programme manager Janice Zilch commented: “This upgrade strengthens the E-2D’s suite of capabilities, enhancing situational awareness, reducing crew workload and paving the way for future technology. We are continuing to deliver unmatched capability at speed to the U.S. Navy and our international partners.”
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye is flown by a five-person crew consisting of two pilots and three mission systems operators. It has an operational ceiling of 37,000 feet, and can fly at 300+ knots for five hours at a time, or longer if refuelled in-flight.
As well as America and France, the E-2 platform is also operated by other allies including Japan, Taiwan, and Egypt.
- You can read more details on the Northrop Grumman website
