Grumman E-2 Hawkeye#E-2D Advanced Hawkeye
{{Short description|Airborne early warning and control aircraft}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2013}}
{{Infobox aircraft
|name= E-2 Hawkeye
|image= File:E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft conduct a test flight.jpg
|image_caption= An E-2D Advanced Hawkeye conducts a flight test
|aircraft_type= Airborne early warning and control
|national_origin= United States
|manufacturer= Grumman
Northrop Grumman
|designer=
|first_flight= 21 October 1960
|introduction= January 1964
|retired=
|status= In service
|primary_user= United States Navy
|more_users= See {{section link||Operators}}
|produced= 1960–present
|developed_from=
|variants=
|developed_into= Grumman C-2 Greyhound
}}
The Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye is an American all-weather, carrier-capable tactical airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft. This twin-turboprop aircraft was designed and developed during the late 1950s and early 1960s by the Grumman Aircraft Company for the United States Navy as a replacement for the earlier, piston-engined E-1 Tracer, which was rapidly becoming obsolete. The aircraft's performance has been upgraded with the E-2B and E-2C versions, where most of the changes were made to the radar and radio communications due to advances in electronic integrated circuits and other electronics. The fourth major version of the Hawkeye is the E-2D, which first flew in 2007. The E-2 was the first aircraft designed specifically for AEW, as opposed to a modification of an existing airframe, such as the Boeing E-3 Sentry. Variants of the Hawkeye have been in continuous production since 1960, giving it the longest production run of any carrier-based aircraft.
The E-2 also received the nickname "Super Fudd"Koppmann, George C., Carrier Airborne Early Warning. George C. Koppmann (LT, USNR – inactive) home page. [http://www.caew.info/] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061208063633/http://www.caew.info/|date=December 8, 2006}} Retrieved: 13 December 2006. because it replaced the WF (later E-1) "Willy Fudd". In recent decades, the E-2 has been commonly referred to as the "Hummer" because of the distinctive sounds of its turboprop engines, quite unlike that of turbojet and turbofan jet engines. In addition to U.S. Navy service, smaller numbers of E-2s have been sold to the armed forces of Egypt, France, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Singapore and Taiwan.
Grumman also used the basic layout of the E-2 to produce the Grumman C-2 Greyhound cargo aircraft.
Development
{{More citations needed section|date=January 2013}}
=Background=
Continual improvements in airborne radars through 1956 led to the construction of AEW airplanes by several different countries and several different armed forces. The functions of command and control and sea and air surveillance were also added. The first carrier-based aircraft to perform these missions for the U.S. Navy and its allies was the Douglas AD Skyraider, which was replaced in US Navy service by the Grumman E-1 Tracer, which was a modified version of the S-2 Tracker twin-engine anti-submarine warfare aircraft, where the radar was carried in an aerofoil-shaped radome carried above the aircraft's fuselage.Godfrey 1977, pp. 7–8.
=E-2A and E-2B Hawkeye=
In 1956, the U.S. Navy developed a requirement for an airborne early warning aircraft where its data could be integrated into the Naval Tactical Data System aboard the Navy's ships, with a design from Grumman being selected to meet this requirement in March 1957.Swanborough and Bowers 1976, p. 244. Its design, initially designated W2F-1, but later redesignated the E-2A Hawkeye, was the first carrier plane that had been designed from its wheels up as an AEW and command and control airplane. The design engineers at Grumman faced immense challenges, including the requirement that the aircraft be able to operate from the older modified {{sclass|Essex|aircraft carrier|1}}s. These vessels were built during World War II and were smaller than modern carriers, being later modified to allow them to operate jet aircraft. Consequently, various height, weight and length restrictions had to be factored into the E-2A design, resulting in some handling characteristics which were less than ideal. However, the E-2A never operated from the modified Essex class carriers.
File:Grumman E-2A Hawkeye in flight in the early 1960s.jpg
The first prototype, acting as an aerodynamic testbed only, flew on 21 October 1960. The first fully equipped aircraft followed it on 19 April 1961 and entered service with the US Navy as the E-2A in January 1964.Taylor 1976, p. 291. By 1965, the project had accumulated so many development issues that it was cancelled after 59 aircraft had already been built. In particular, difficulties were being experienced due to inadequate cooling in the closely packed avionics compartment. Early computers and complex avionics systems generated considerable heat and could fail without proper ventilation. These issues continued long after the aircraft entered service. At one point, reliability was so bad that the entire fleet of aircraft was grounded.{{Citation needed|date=August 2018}}
After Navy officials had been forced to explain to Congress why four production contracts had been signed before avionics testing had been completed, action was taken; Grumman and the US Navy scrambled to improve the design. The unreliable rotary drum computer was replaced by a Litton L-304 digital computer{{cite journal |title=across the editor's desk: COMPUTING AND DATA PROCESSING NEWSLETTER - LITTON'S L-304 |journal=Computers and Automation |date=Oct 1965 |volume=14 |issue=10 |pages=43–44 |url=https://archive.org/details/bitsavers_computersA_7957328/page/n41?q=%22monolithic+silicon+integrated+and+hybrid%22}}
- {{cite journal|title=COMPUTERS AND DATA PROCESSORS, NORTH AMERICA: 4. Litton Industries, Guidance and Control Systems Division, L-304 Militarized Computer, Woodland Hills, California|journal=Digital Computer Newsletter|date=Jan 1966|volume=18|issue=1|page=23|url=http://www.dtic.mil/docs/citations/AD0694647|language=en|access-date=February 25, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180603105832/http://www.dtic.mil/docs/citations/AD0694647|archive-date=June 3, 2018|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/bitsavers_littonL304mputerSystemSep66_6953238/page/n7|title=The Litton L-304 Dual Computer System|date=1966|work=trailing-edge.com|page=2|access-date=August 1, 2016|quote=L-304E with 4096 words of memory was completed and put in operation. Very shortly thereafter, the computer was tied to a typewriter, paper tape reader and punch, a small magnetic tape, a real-time clock and a small CRT display and control console.}} [http://bitsavers.trailing-edge.com/pdf/litton/L-304/The_Litton_L-304_Dual_Computer_System_Sep66.pdf Alt URL]
- {{cite journal|date=Dec 1967|title=1967 Pictorial Report on the Computer Field: DIGITAL COMPUTERS - TACTICAL AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING SYSTEM (TADPS)|url=https://archive.org/details/bitsavers_computersA_11280381/page/n33?q=%22TACTICAL+AUTOMATIC+DATA+PROCESSING+SYSTEM+%28TADPS%29%22|journal=Computers and Automation|issue=12|page=35}} and various avionics systems were replaced – the upgraded aircraft were designated E-2Bs. In total, 49 of the 59 E-2As were upgraded to E-2B standard. These aircraft replaced the E-1B Tracers in the various US Navy AEW squadrons.{{cn|date=January 2024}}
=E-2C Hawkeye and upgrades=
File:US Navy 090713-N-2798I-005 An E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the Greyhawks of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 120 flies over Jacksonville, Fla.jpg flies over Jacksonville, Florida]]
File:USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) conducts flight operations. (49122248696).jpg
Although the upgraded E-2B was a vast improvement on the unreliable E-2A, it was an interim measure. The US Navy knew the design had much greater capability and had yet to achieve the performance and reliability parameters set out in the original 1957 design. In April 1968, a reliability improvement program was initiated. In addition, now that the capabilities of the aircraft were starting to be realized, more were desired; 28 new E-2Cs were ordered to augment the 49 E-2Bs that would be upgraded. Improvements in the new and upgraded aircraft were concentrated in the radar and computer performance.{{Citation needed|date=August 2015}}
Two E-2A test machines were modified as E-2C prototypes, the first flying on 20 January 1971. Trials proved satisfactory and the E-2C was ordered into production. The first production aircraft performed its initial flight on 23 September 1972. The original E-2C, known as Group 0, consisted of 55 aircraft; the first aircraft became operational in 1973 and serving on carriers in the 1980s and 1990s, until they were replaced in first-line service by Group II aircraft. US Navy Reserve used some aircraft for tracking drug smugglers. The type was commonly used in conjunction with Grumman F-14 Tomcat fighters, monitoring airspace and then vectoring Tomcats over the Link-4A datalink to destroy potential threats with long range AIM-54C Phoenix missiles.{{Citation needed|date=August 2015}}
The next production run, between 1988 and 1991, saw 18 aircraft built to the Group I standard. Group I aircraft replaced the E-2's older APS-125 radar and T56-A-425 turboprops with their successors, the APS-139 radar system and T56-A-427 turboprops. The first Group I aircraft entered service in August 1981. Upgrading the Group 0 aircraft to Group I specifications was considered, but the cost was comparable to a new production aircraft, so upgrades were not conducted. Group I aircraft were only flown by the Atlantic fleet squadrons. This version was followed within a few years by the Group II, which had the improved APS-145 radar. A total of 50 Group II aircraft were delivered, 12 being upgraded Group I aircraft. This new version entered service in June 1992 and served with the Pacific and Atlantic Fleet squadrons.{{Citation needed|date=August 2015}}
By 1997, the US Navy intended that all front line squadrons would be equipped, for a total of 75 Group II aircraft. Grumman merged with Northrop in 1994 and plans began on the Group II Plus, also known as the Group II / NAV upgrade. This kept the same computer and radar as the Group II while upgrading the pilot avionics, such as replacing the mechanical Inertial Navigation System (INS) with a more reliable and accurate laser Ring Gyroscope-driven INS, installing dual Multifunction Control Display Units (MFCDUs) (vice one in the Group II) and integrating GPS into the weapon system. A variant of the Group II with upgrades to the mission computer and CIC workstations is referred to as the MCU/ACIS, these were produced in small numbers due to production of the Hawkeye 2000 soon after its introduction. All Group II aircraft had their 1960s vintage computer processors replaced by a mission computer with the same functionality via modern computer technology, referred to as the GrIIM RePr (Group II Mission Computer Replacement Program, pronounced "grim reaper").{{cite web|url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=15443|title=E-2C New Mission Computer Improves Reliability, Reduces Costs|first=This story was written by Program Executive Office for Tactical Aircraft Programs Public|last=Affairs|work=navy.mil|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011010842/http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=15443|archive-date=October 11, 2016|url-status=dead}}
Another upgrade to the Group II was the Hawkeye 2000, which featured the same APS-145 radar but incorporated an upgraded mission computer and CIC (Combat Information Center) workstations (Advanced Control Indicator Set or ACIS and carries the U.S. Navy's new CEC (cooperative engagement capability) data-link system. It is also fitted with a larger capacity vapor cycle avionics cooling system. Starting in 2007 a hardware and software upgrade package began to be added to existing Hawkeye 2000 aircraft. This upgrade allows faster processing, double current trackfile capacity and access to satellite information networks. Hawkeye 2000 cockpits being upgraded include solid-state glass displays and a GPS-approach capability.{{cite web |title=Northrop Grumman E-2C Hawkeye 2000 |url=http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/E2CHawkeye2000/Documents/pageDocuments/E-2C_Hawkeye_2000_data_sheet.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141027231614/http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/E2CHawkeye2000/Documents/pageDocuments/E-2C_Hawkeye_2000_data_sheet.pdf |archive-date=October 27, 2014 |access-date=July 14, 2013}} The remaining Hawkeye Group II NAV Upgrade aircraft received GPS approach capability, but did not get the solid-state glass displays.{{Citation needed|date=August 2015}}
In 2004, the E-2C's propeller system was changed; a new eight-bladed propeller system named NP2000 was developed by the Hamilton-Sundstrand company to replace the old four-bladed design. Improvements included reduced vibrations and better maintainability as a result of the ability to remove prop blades individually instead of having to remove the entire prop and hub assembly.{{cite web|url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=11296|title=Navy's NP2000 Propeller Completes Flight Testing|first=This story was written by Denise Deon Wilson, NAVAIR Public Affairs|last=PEO(T)|work=navy.mil|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011005226/http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=11296|archive-date=October 11, 2016|url-status=dead}} The propeller blades are of carbon fiber construction with steel leading edge inserts and de-icing boots at the root of the blade.{{cite web|url=http://utcaerospacesystems.com/cap/systems/Pages/propeller-systems-business.aspx|title=Aircraft Propeller Systems – UTC Aerospace Systems|work=utcaerospacesystems.com|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160802193636/http://utcaerospacesystems.com/cap/systems/Pages/propeller-systems-business.aspx|archive-date=August 2, 2016|url-status=live}}
=E-2D Advanced Hawkeye=
File:An E-2D Hawkeye flies over Naval Base Norfolk (13315193084).jpg over NS Norfolk]]
Once considered for replacement by the "Common Support Aircraft", this concept was abandoned. The latest E-2 version is the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, which features an entirely new avionics suite including the new {{anchor|AN/APY-9}}AN/APY-9 radar, radio suite, mission computer, integrated satellite communications, flight management system, improved T56-A-427A engines, a glass cockpit and aerial refueling.{{cite news |last=Majumdar |first=Dave |date=2014-10-16 |title=Navy Declares IOC For E-2D Advanced Hawkeye |url=http://news.usni.org/2014/10/16/navy-declares-ioc-e-2d-advanced-hawkeye |work=US Naval Institute |access-date=2015-07-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724120529/http://news.usni.org/2014/10/16/navy-declares-ioc-e-2d-advanced-hawkeye |archive-date=July 24, 2015 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=https://www.northropgrumman.com/what-we-do/air/e-2d-advanced-hawkeye/ |title=E-2D Advanced Hawkeye |publisher=Northrop Grumman |date= |accessdate=2022-05-02}} The APY-9 radar features an active electronically scanned array (AESA),{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/us-approves-e-2ds-for-france|title=US approves E-2Ds for France|last=Jennings|first=Gareth|work=Janes.com|date=July 7, 2020 |publisher=Janes|access-date=29 March 2022}} which adds electronic scanning to the mechanical rotation of the radar in its radome. The E-2D includes provisions for the copilot to act as a "Tactical 4th Operator" (T4O), who can reconfigure their main cockpit display to show radar, IFF, Link 16 (JTIDS)/CEC and access all acquired data. The E-2D's first flight occurred on 3 August 2007.[http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=124332 "Northrop Grumman E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Completes First Flight"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927180030/http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=124332 |date=September 27, 2007}}. Northrop Grumman, 3 August 2007. On 8 May 2009, an E-2D used its Cooperative Engagement Capability system to engage an overland cruise missile with a Standard Missile SM-6 fired from another platform in an integrated fire-control system test.{{cn|date=January 2024}} These two systems will form the basis of the Naval Integrated Fire Control – Counter Air (NIFC-CA) when fielded in 2015; the USN is investigating adding other systems to the NIFC-CA network in the future.{{cite news |url=http://www.dodbuzz.com/2014/05/22/navy-considers-its-beyond-the-horizon-future/ |title=Navy Considers it's Beyond-the-Horizon Future |last1=Osborn |first1=Kris |date=22 May 2014 |website=www.dodbuzz.com |publisher=Monster |access-date=23 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140524061831/http://www.dodbuzz.com/2014/05/22/navy-considers-its-beyond-the-horizon-future/ |archive-date=May 24, 2014 |url-status=dead}}
The APY-9 radar has been suspected of being capable of detecting fighter-sized stealth aircraft, which are typically optimized against high frequencies like Ka, Ku, X, C and parts of the S-bands. Small aircraft lack the size or weight allowances for all-spectrum low-observable features, leaving a vulnerability to detection by the UHF-band APY-9 radar, potentially detecting fifth-generation fighters like the Russian Sukhoi Su-57 and the Chinese Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-31. Historically, UHF radars had resolution and detection issues that made them ineffective for accurate targeting and fire control; Northrop Grumman and Lockheed claim that the APY-9 has solved these shortcomings by using advanced electronic scanning and high digital computing power via space/time adaptive processing. According to the Navy's NIFC-CA concept, the E-2D could guide fleet weapons, such as AIM-120 AMRAAM and SM-6 missiles, onto targets beyond a launch platform's detection range or capabilities.[http://news.usni.org/2014/06/09/u-s-navys-secret-counter-stealth-weapon-hiding-plain-sight The U.S. Navy's Secret Counter-Stealth Weapon Could Be Hiding in Plain Sight] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140709141815/http://news.usni.org/2014/06/09/u-s-navys-secret-counter-stealth-weapon-hiding-plain-sight |date=July 9, 2014}} – News.USNI.org, 9 June 2014
Deliveries of initial production E-2Ds began in 2010.[http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=179988 "Northrop Grumman's E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Program Demonstrating Continued Success"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111124043050/http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=179988 |date=November 24, 2011}}. Northrop Grumman, 9 December 2009. On 4 February 2010, Delta One conducted the first E-2D carrier landing aboard USS Harry S. Truman as a part of carrier suitability testing.{{cite web|url=http://www.asdnews.com/news/33350/NGC_s_E-2D_Advanced_Hawkeye_Completes_1st_Carrier_Landing.htm|title=NGC's E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Completes 1st Carrier Landing|work=asdnews.com|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110209023945/http://www.asdnews.com/news/33350/NGC_s_E-2D_Advanced_Hawkeye_Completes_1st_Carrier_Landing.htm|archive-date=February 9, 2011|url-status=dead}} On 27 September 2011, an E-2D was successfully launched by the prototype Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) at Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst.{{cite web |title= Navy's new electromagnetic catapult 'real smooth' |url= http://www.app.com/article/20110927/NJNEWS/309270121/Navy-s-new-electromagnetic-catapult-real-smooth- |publisher= Newbury Park Press |date= 28 September 2011 |access-date=2011-10-04}}{{cite web |title= New carrier launch system tested |url= http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/10/03/New-carrier-launch-system-tested/UPI-13601317652464/ |work= Security Industry |publisher= UPI |date= 3 October 2011 |access-date= 2011-10-04 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111004172633/http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2011/10/03/New-carrier-launch-system-tested/UPI-13601317652464/ |archive-date= October 4, 2011 |url-status= live}} On 12 February 2013, the Office of the Secretary of Defense approved the E-2D to enter full-rate production. The Navy plans for an initial operational capability by 2015.[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pentagon-approves-e-2d-hawkeye-full-rate-production-382236/ Pentagon approves E-2D Hawkeye full rate production] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130215094831/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pentagon-approves-e-2d-hawkeye-full-rate-production-382236/ |date=February 15, 2013}} – Flightglobal.com, February 12, 2013 In June 2013, the 10th E-2D was delivered to the Navy, with an additional 10 aircraft in various stages of manufacturing and predelivery flight testing. On 18 July 2013, Northrop Grumman was awarded a $113.7 million contract for five full-rate production Lot 2 E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft.[http://www.deagel.com/news/US-Navy-Orders-Five-Lot-2-Full-Rate-Production-E-2D-Advanced-Hawkeyes_n000011750.aspx US Navy Orders Five Lot 2 Full Rate Production E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714220026/http://www.deagel.com/news/US-Navy-Orders-Five-Lot-2-Full-Rate-Production-E-2D-Advanced-Hawkeyes_n000011750.aspx |date=July 14, 2014}} – Deagel.com, 18 July 2013 On 13 August 2013, Northrop Grumman was awarded a $617 million contract for five E-2Ds until full-rate production Lot 1.[http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1185 Northrop Grumman Awarded $617 Million for Full-Rate Production E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130902204502/http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1185 |date=September 2, 2013}} – Airrecognition.com, 13 August 2013 On 30 June 2014, Northrop Grumman was awarded a $3.6 billion contract to supply 25 more E-2D, for a total contracted number of 50 aircraft; 13 E-2D models had been delivered by that time.[http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/digital-battlespace/us-navy-orders-additional-e-2d-aewc-aircraft/ US Navy orders additional E-2D AEW&C aircraft] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714141635/http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/digital-battlespace/us-navy-orders-additional-e-2d-aewc-aircraft/ |date=July 14, 2014}} – Shephardmedia.com, 1 July 2014
In December 2016, an E-2D flew for the first time fitted with an aerial refueling capability. This feature will allow the aircraft to double its time on station to five hours and increase total mission time from four to seven hours. The refueling modification will start being built into the 46th plane (out of 75 planned) for delivery in late 2020 costing an additional $2 million per aircraft and the Navy plans to retrofit the feature on all previous Hawkeyes for $6 million per plane.[https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/navy-league/2018/04/11/northrop-to-begin-cutting-in-aerial-refueling-capability-in-e-2d-advanced-hawkeye-production-this-year/ Northrop to begin cutting in aerial refueling capability in E-2D Advanced Hawkeye production this year]. Defense News. 11 April 2018.{{update inline|date=May 2021}}
Design
File:E2C-Hawkeye01.jpg, the E-2 uses the Grumman Sto-Wing folding wing system for carrier storage.]]
The E-2 is a high-wing airplane, with one Allison T56 turboprop engine (5250 shp rating) on each wing{{cite web|url=http://miravim.org/avimlibrary/Manuals/Powerplant%20Manuals/Aircraft%20Propellers/Other%20Manufacturers/Rolls-Royce%20Allison%20T56%20Turns%2050.pdf|title=The Rolls-Royce Allison T56 is fifty|publisher=New Zealand Aviation News, September, 2004|access-date=2013-11-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141021001335/http://miravim.org/avimlibrary/Manuals/Powerplant%20Manuals/Aircraft%20Propellers/Other%20Manufacturers/Rolls-Royce%20Allison%20T56%20Turns%2050.pdf|archive-date=2014-10-21|url-status=dead}} Retrieved on 2 November 2013 and retractable tricycle landing gear. As with all CATOBAR carrier-borne airplanes, the E-2 is equipped with a tail hook for recovery (landing) and the nose gear can attach to a shuttle of the aircraft carrier's catapults for launch (takeoff). A distinguishing feature of the Hawkeye is its 24-foot (7.3 m) diameter rotating radar dome (rotodome) that is mounted above its fuselage and wings. This carries the E-2's primary antennas for its long-range radar and IFF systems. No other carrier-borne aircraft possesses one of these. Land-based aircraft with rotodomes include the Boeing E-3 Sentry, a larger AWACS airplane operated by the U.S. Air Force and NATO air forces in large numbers. The similarly placed stationary radome of the E-2's piston-engined predecessor, the E-1 Tracer, also mandated the E-2's adoption of a modern version of the Grumman Sto-Wing folding wing system,{{cite web |url=http://www.aviation-history.com/grumman/f4f.html |title=The Aviation History Online Museum – Grumman F4F Wildcat |last1=Dwyer |first1=Larry |date=19 February 2014 |website=aviation-history.com |publisher=The Aviation History Online Museum |access-date=April 2, 2016 |quote=The F4F-4 was the first version of the Wildcat to feature a Grumman innovation, the Sto-Wing. The Sto-Wing used a novel approach using a compound angle folding-wing that was unique to Grumman...It was a successful design that was later used on the F6F Hellcat and TBF Avenger. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160405154049/http://www.aviation-history.com/grumman/f4f.html |archive-date=April 5, 2016 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |url=https://www.asme.org/getmedia/2d64abc8-3fa3-4d29-92d4-40db4777e8b2/238-Grumman-Wildcat-Sto-Wing-Wing-folding-Mechanism.aspx |title=WING-FOLDING MECHANISM OF THE GRUMMAN WILDCAT – An American Society of Mechanical Engineers Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark |author= |date=May 15, 2006 |website=asme.org |publisher=American Society of Mechanical Engineers |access-date=April 29, 2017 |quote=The innovative wing folding mechanism STO-Wing), developed by Leroy Grumman in early 1941 and first applied to the XF4F-4 Wildcat, manufactured by the Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation, is designated an ASME Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151021083204/https://www.asme.org/getmedia/2d64abc8-3fa3-4d29-92d4-40db4777e8b2/238-Grumman-Wildcat-Sto-Wing-Wing-folding-Mechanism.aspx |archive-date=October 21, 2015 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all}} preventing the folded wing panels from making contact with the E-2's rotodome.{{cite web|url=http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/25572/confessions-of-an-e-2c-hawkeye-radar-operator|title=Confessions Of An E-2C Hawkeye Radar Operator|last=Rogoway|first=Craig Picken and Tyler|website=The Drive|date=December 19, 2018 |access-date=2018-12-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181220161638/http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/25572/confessions-of-an-e-2c-hawkeye-radar-operator|archive-date=December 20, 2018|url-status=live}}
The aircraft is operated by a crew of five, with the pilot and co-pilot on the flight deck and the combat information center officer, air control officer and radar operator stations located in the rear fuselage directly beneath the rotodome.{{citation needed|date=January 2013}}
In U.S. service, the E-2 Hawkeye provides all-weather airborne early warning and command and control capabilities for all aircraft-carrier battle groups. In addition, its other purposes include sea and land surveillance, the control of the aircraft carrier's fighter planes for air defense, the control of strike aircraft on offensive missions, the control of search and rescue missions for naval aviators and sailors lost at sea, relaying radio communications, air-to-air and ship-to-air. It can also serve in an air traffic control capacity in emergency situations when land-based ATC is unavailable.{{citation needed|date=January 2013}}
The E-2C and E-2D Hawkeyes use advanced electronic sensors combined with digital computer signal processing, especially its radars, for early warning of enemy aircraft attacks and anti-ship missile attacks, controlling the carrier's combat air patrol (CAP) fighters, and secondarily for surveillance of the surrounding sea and land for enemy warships and guided-missile launchers and any other electronic surveillance missions as directed.{{citation needed|date=January 2013}}
Operational history
=US Navy=
File:US Navy E-2D Hawkeye - Iwakuni, Japan - MCAS Iwakuni's 46th Friendship Day - May 2025.jpg
The E-2A entered U.S. Navy service in January 1964 and in April 1964 with VAW-11 at NAS North Island. The first deployment was aboard the aircraft carrier {{USS|Kitty Hawk|CV-63|6}} during 1965.Godfrey 1977, p.8.
Since entering combat during the Vietnam War, the E-2 has served the US Navy around the world, acting as the electronic "eyes of the fleet".
In August 1981, a Hawkeye from VAW-124 "Bear Aces" directed two F-14 Tomcats from VF-41 "Black Aces" in an intercept mission in the Gulf of Sidra that resulted in the downing of two Libyan Sukhoi Su-22s. Hawkeyes from VAW-123 aboard the aircraft carrier {{USS|America|CV-66|6}} directed a group of F-14 Tomcat fighters flying the Combat Air Patrol during Operation El Dorado Canyon, the joint strike of two Carrier Battle Groups in the Mediterranean Sea against Libyan targets during 1986.
More recently, E-2Cs provided the command and control for both aerial warfare and land-attack missions during the Persian Gulf War. Hawkeyes have supported the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Customs Service, and American federal and state police forces during anti-drug operations.
In the mid-1980s, several U.S. Navy E-2Cs were made available to the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Customs Service for counter-narcotics (CN) and maritime interdiction operations (MIO). This also led to the Coast Guard building a small cadre of Naval Flight Officers (NFOs), starting with the recruitment and interservice transfer of Navy flight officers with E-2 flight experience and the flight training of other junior Coast Guard officers as NFOs. A fatal aircraft mishap on 24 August 1990 involving a Coast Guard E-2C at the former Naval Station Roosevelt Roads in Puerto Rico{{cite web|url=http://www.uscg.mil/history/AviationCasualties.asp|title=U.S. Coast Guard Aviation Casualties|work=uscg.mil|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161214045456/https://www.uscg.mil/history/AviationCasualties.asp|archive-date=December 14, 2016|url-status=live}} prompted the Coast Guard to discontinue flying E-2Cs and to return its E-2Cs to the Navy. The U.S. Customs Service also returned its E-2Cs to the Navy and concentrated on the use of former U.S. Navy P-3 Orion aircraft in the CN role.{{Citation needed|date=July 2010}}
File:Hawkeye DN-SD-02-03997.jpg
E-2C Hawkeye squadrons played a critical role in air operations during Operation Desert Storm. In one instance, a Hawkeye crew provided critical air control direction to two F/A-18 Hornet aircrew, resulting in the shootdown of two Iraqi MiG-21s. During Operations Southern Watch and Desert Fox, Hawkeye crews continued to provide thousands of hours of air coverage, while providing air-to-air and air-to-ground command and control in a number of combat missions.{{Citation needed|date=January 2011}}
The E-2 Hawkeye is a crucial component of all U.S. Navy carrier air wings; each carrier is equipped with four Hawkeyes (five in some situations), allowing for continuous 24-hour-a-day operation of at least one E-2 and for one or two to undergo maintenance in the aircraft carrier's hangar deck at all times. Until 2005, the US Navy Hawkeyes were organized into East and West coast wings, supporting the respective fleets. However, the East coast wing was disestablished, all aircraft were organized into a single wing based at Point Mugu, California. Six E-2C aircraft were deployed by the US Naval Reserve for drug interdiction and homeland security operations until 9 March 2013, when the sole Reserve squadron, VAW-77 "Nightwolves", was decommissioned and its six aircraft sent to other squadrons.{{cite web|url=http://www.norfolknavyflagship.com/oceana/news/fleet_news/article_8a787942-82a3-11e2-840f-001a4bcf887a.html|title=VAW-77 'Nightwolves' to be disestablished March 9|first=From Commander, Naval Air Force Reserve Public|last=Affairs|work=norfolknavyflagship.com|access-date=August 1, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.nola.com/military/index.ssf/2013/03/navys_nightwolves_gather_one_l.html|title=Navy's 'Nightwolves' gather one last time at the Naval Air Station before decommissioning|work=nola.com|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160806210342/http://www.nola.com/military/index.ssf/2013/03/navys_nightwolves_gather_one_l.html|archive-date=August 6, 2016|url-status=live}}
During Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom all ten Regular Navy Hawkeye squadrons flew overland sorties. They provided battle management for attack of enemy ground targets, close-air-support coordination, combat search and rescue control, airspace management, as well as datalink and communication relay for both land and naval forces. During the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, three Hawkeye squadrons (two Regular Navy and one Navy Reserve) were deployed in support of civilian relief efforts including Air Traffic Control responsibilities spanning three states, and the control of U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and Army National Guard and Air National Guard helicopter rescue units.
Hawkeye 2000s first deployed in 2003 aboard {{USS|Nimitz}} with VAW-117, the "Wallbangers" (formerly the "Nighthawks") and CVW-11. U.S. Navy E-2C Hawkeyes have been upgraded with eight-bladed propellers as part of the NP2000 program; the first squadron to cruise with the new propellers was VAW-124 "Bear Aces". The Hawkeye 2000 version can track over 2,000 targets simultaneously while also detecting 20,000 targets to a range greater than {{convert|400|mi|km|abbr=on}} and simultaneously guide 40–100 air-to-air intercepts or air-to-surface engagements.{{citation needed|date=October 2020}}
In 2014, several E-2C Hawkeyes from the Bear Aces of VAW-124 were deployed from {{USS|George H.W. Bush}} as flying command posts and air traffic controllers over Iraq during Operation Inherent Resolve against the Islamic State.[http://breakingdefense.com/2014/10/e-2d-hits-ioc-navy-hawkeyes-larger-more-lethal-role/ E-2D Hits IOC; Navy Hawkeye Gets Larger, Lethal Role] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141020010637/http://breakingdefense.com/2014/10/e-2d-hits-ioc-navy-hawkeyes-larger-more-lethal-role/ |date=October 20, 2014}}- Breaking Defense, 17 October 2014
VAW-120, the E-2C fleet replacement squadron began receiving E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes for training use in July 2010.{{Citation |last= Wiltrout |first= Kate |title= Navy welcomes Advanced Hawkeye, newest eye in the sky |newspaper= The Virginian-Pilot |date= 30 July 2010 |url= http://hamptonroads.com/2010/07/navy-welcomes-advanced-hawkeye-newest-eye-sky |access-date= July 30, 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110914182241/http://hamptonroads.com/2010/07/navy-welcomes-advanced-hawkeye-newest-eye-sky |archive-date= September 14, 2011 |url-status= live}} On 27 March 2014, the first E-2Ds were delivered to the VAW-125.[http://www.deagel.com/news/E-2D-Advanced-Hawkeye-Command-and-Control-Aircraft-Joins-the-US-Navys-Fleet_n000012529.aspx E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Command and Control Aircraft Joins the US Navy's Fleet] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810132021/http://www.deagel.com/news/E-2D-Advanced-Hawkeye-Command-and-Control-Aircraft-Joins-the-US-Navys-Fleet_n000012529.aspx |date=August 10, 2014}} – Deagel.com, 27 March 2014 The E-2D achieved Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in October 2014 when VAW-125 was certified to have five operational aircraft. This began training on the aircraft for its first operational deployment, scheduled for 2015 aboard {{USS|Theodore Roosevelt|CVN-71|6}}.[https://archive.today/20141017153343/http://www.navytimes.com/article/20141016/NEWS04/310160060/New-Navy-E-2D-aircraft-goes-operational New Navy E-2D aircraft goes operational] – Navytimes.com, 16 October 2014Butler, Amy, "Ready to sail", Aviation Week and Space Technology, October 27, 2014 The E-2D will play a larger role than that of the E-2C, with five E-2Ds aboard each carrier instead of the current four C-models, requiring the acquisition of 75 total E-2Ds. On 11 March 2015, the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group departed Naval Station Norfolk[http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=20272 ALL HANDS update] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150316034940/http://www.navy.mil/viewVideo.asp?id=20272 |date=March 16, 2015}} Headlines for Thursday, March 12, 2015. and returned to port on 23 November 2015, concluding the first operational use of the E-2D.[http://www.navytimes.com/story/military/2015/11/23/carrier-tr-returns-round--world-deployment/76267290/ Carrier Theodore Roosevelt returns from round-the-world deployment] – Navytimes.com, 23 November 2015
=Other operators=
E-2 Hawkeyes have been sold by the U.S. Federal Government under Foreign Military Sales (FMS) procedures to the armed forces of Egypt, France, Israel, Japan, Singapore and Taiwan.Donald, David, ed. "Grumman E-2 Hawkeye/TE-2/C-2 Greyhound". The Complete Encyclopedia of World Aircraft. Barnes & Nobel Books, 1997. {{ISBN|0-7607-0592-5}}.
==Egypt==
Egypt purchased five E-2C Hawkeyes, that entered service in 1987 and were upgraded to Hawkeye 2000 standard. One additional upgraded E-2C was purchased. The first upgraded aircraft was delivered in March 2003 and deliveries were concluded in late 2008. Egypt requested two additional excess E-2C aircraft in October 2007; deliveries began in 2010.{{cite web |title=Egypt to Procure Additional E-2C Hawkeye |url=http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/168040/egypt-to-receive-additional-e_2c-hawkeye-from-us-navy-stocks.html |date=20 October 2015 |work=defense-aerospace |access-date=11 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151022150157/http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/168040/egypt-to-receive-additional-e_2c-hawkeye-from-us-navy-stocks.html |archive-date=October 22, 2015 |url-status=dead }} They all operate in 601 AEW Brigade, Cairo-West.
==France==
File:FS CdG Super Hawkeye.jpg]]
The French Naval Aviation (Aeronavale) operates three E-2C Hawkeyes and has been the only operator of the E-2 Hawkeye from an aircraft carrier besides the U.S. Navy.Eden, Paul, ed. "Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye, Eyes of the fleet". Encyclopedia of Modern Military Aircraft. Amber Books, 2004. {{ISBN|1-904687-84-9}}. The French nuclear-powered carrier, {{ship|French aircraft carrier|Charles de Gaulle||2}}, currently carries two E-2C Hawkeyes on her combat patrols offshore. The third French E-2C Hawkeye has been upgraded with eight-bladed propellers as part of the NP2000 program. In April 2007, France requested the purchase of an additional aircraft.
The Flottille 4F of the French Navy's Aeronavale was stood up on 2 July 2000 and flies its E-2C Hawkeyes from its naval air station at Lann-Bihoue, deploying to the Charles de Gaulle. They took part in operations in Afghanistan and Libya.[http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.NAVAIRNewsStory&id=4378 "French, U.S. Navy celebrate 10 years of E-2C excellence."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120927075131/http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.NAVAIRNewsStory&id=4378 |date=September 27, 2012}} PEO(T) Public Affairs, 3 August 2010.
In September 2019 Florence Parly, French Minister of the Armed Forces, announced that three new E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes would be purchased in 2020 to replace the E-2Cs in service.{{cite web|author=Henri-Pierre Grolleau, Paris - Jane's Navy International |url=https://www.janes.com/article/91573/french-navy-firms-up-plans-to-buy-e-2d-advanced-hawkeye |title=French Navy firms up plans to buy E-2D Advanced Hawkeye | Jane's 360 |publisher=Janes.com |date=2019-09-27 |access-date=2019-10-09}}
In December 2024, France's first E-2D Hawkeye entered production, scheduled for delivery in 2027.{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=Naval News |date=2024-12-10 |title=France's First E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Enters Production |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2024/12/frances-first-e-2d-advanced-hawkeye-enters-production/ |access-date=2024-12-11 |website=Naval News |language=en-US}}
==Japan==
On 6 September 1976, Soviet Air Forces pilot Viktor Belenko successfully defected, landing his MiG-25 'Foxbat' at Hakodate Airport, Japan. During this incident, the Japan Self-Defense Forces' (JASDF) radar lost track of the aircraft when Belenko flew his MiG-25 at a low altitude, prompting the JASDF to consider procurement of airborne early warning aircraft.
Initially, the E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control system aircraft was considered to be the prime candidate for the airborne early warning mission by the JASDF. However, the Japanese Defense Agency realized that the E-3 would not be readily available due to USAF needs and opted to procure E-2 Hawkeye aircraft. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force bought thirteen E-2C aircraft to improve its early warning capabilities. The E-2C was put into service with the Airborne Early Warning Group (AEWG) at Misawa Air Base in January 1987.
On 21 November 2014, the Japanese Ministry of Defense officially decided to procure the E-2D version of the Hawkeye, instead of the Boeing 737 AEW&C design.[http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/international/asia-pacific/2014/11/21/japan-officially-selects-osprey/19343099/ Japan Officially Selects Osprey, Global Hawk, E-2D] – Defensenews.com, 21 November 2014 In June 2015, the Japanese government requested to buy four E-2Ds through a Foreign Military Sale.[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/japan-raises-e-2d-acquisition-to-four-aircraft-413008/ Japan raises E-2D acquisition to four aircraft] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602231301/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/japan-raises-e-2d-acquisition-to-four-aircraft-413008/ |date=June 2, 2015}} – Flightglobal.com, 2 June 2015
In September 2018 the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the possible sale of up to nine E-2Ds to Japan.{{cite web|url=http://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/japan-e-2d-advanced-hawkeye-airborne-early-warning-and-control-aircraft-0|title=Japan – E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning and Control Aircraft|publisher=Defense Security Cooperation Agency|date=10 September 2018|access-date=24 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924145233/http://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/japan-e-2d-advanced-hawkeye-airborne-early-warning-and-control-aircraft-0|archive-date=September 24, 2018|url-status=dead}}
A sale of up to five E-2Ds for JASDF was approved by the U.S. State Department and DSCA notified Congress on 7 March 2023.{{cite web | url=https://navyrecognition.com/index.php/naval-news/naval-news-archive/2023/march/12900-us-gov-approves-sale-to-japan-of-e-2d-advanced-hawkeye-aircraft.html | title=US Gov approves sale to Japan of E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft | date=March 8, 2023 }} The sale includes ancillary equipment, spares and training support for an estimated $1.38 billion. The proposed five E-2Ds are in addition to the six E-2Ds Japan already has and the seven more it has on order. However, the Japanese Ministry of Defense did not reveal in its most recent proposed budget any intention to acquire more aircraft.{{Cite magazine |magazine=Aviation Week & Space Technology |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/japan-seeking-more-e-2d-hawkeyes |title=Japan Seeking More E-2D Hawkeyes |last1=Chuanren |first1=Chen |date=8 March 2023}}
==Mexico==
In 2004, three former Israel Air Force E-2C aircraft were sold to the Mexican Navy to perform maritime and shore surveillance missions. These aircraft were upgraded locally by IAI. The first Mexican E-2C was rolled out in January 2004.{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/iai-rolls-out-first-upgraded-e-2c-hawkeye-at-ben-gurion-176849/ |title= IAI rolls out first upgraded E-2C Hawkeye |publisher= flightglobal.com |access-date= 10 October 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141018183911/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/iai-rolls-out-first-upgraded-e-2c-hawkeye-at-ben-gurion-176849/ |archive-date= October 18, 2014 |url-status= live}}
==Singapore==
File:111Sqn E-2C Hawkeye.jpg from 111 Sqn on static display at Paya Lebar Air Base, 2006]]
The Republic of Singapore Air Force acquired four Grumman E-2C Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft in 1987, which are assigned to the 111 Squadron "Jaeger" based at Tengah Air Base.
In April 2007, it was announced that the four E-2C Hawkeyes were to be replaced with four Gulfstream G550s which would become the primary early warning aircraft of the Singapore Air Force. On 13 April 2012, the newer G550 AEWs officially took over duty from the former.{{cite press release|title=Planned replacement for AEW E-2C|publisher=Singaporean Ministry of Defence (MINDEF)|date=23 April 2007|url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2007/apr/23apr07_nr/23apr07_fs3.html|access-date=13 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171015044252/https://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2007/apr/23apr07_nr/23apr07_fs3.html|archive-date=October 15, 2017|url-status=dead}}{{Cite press release |title=RSAF's First Gulfstream 550 Airborne Early Warning Aircraft Returns to Singapore |publisher=MINDEF |date=19 February 2009 |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2009/feb/19feb09_nr.html |access-date=4 October 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170303050639/https://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2009/feb/19feb09_nr.html |archive-date=March 3, 2017 |url-status=dead }}{{cite press release |title=RSAF's Gulfstream 550 Airborne Early Warning Aircraft is Fully Operational |publisher=MINDEF |date=13 April 2012 |url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2012/apr/13apr12_nr2.html |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201081918/https://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/news_and_events/nr/2012/apr/13apr12_nr2.html |archive-date=December 1, 2017 |url-status=dead }} Singapore has close ties with the Israel military which has also acquired the G550 AEW.
==Israel==
Israel was the first export customer; its four Hawkeyes were delivered during 1981, complete with the folding wings characteristic of carrier-borne aircraft.
The four examples were soon put into active service before and during the 1982 Lebanon War during which they won a resounding victory over Syrian air defenses and fighter control. They were central to the Israeli victory in the air battles over the Bekaa Valley during which over 90 Syrian fighters were downed. The Hawkeyes were also the linchpins of the operation in which the IAF destroyed the surface-to-air missile (SAM) array in the Bekaa, coordinating the various stages of the operation, vectoring planes into bombing runs and directing intercepts. Under constant escort by F-15 Eagles, there were always two Hawkeyes on station off the Lebanese coast, controlling the various assets in the air and detecting any Syrian aircraft upon their takeoff, eliminating any chance of surprise.
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) operated four E-2s for its homeland AEW protection through 1994. The IAF was the first user of the E-2 to install air-to-air refueling equipment.
Three of the four Israeli-owned Hawkeyes were sold to Mexico in 2002 after they had been upgraded with new systems; the remaining example was sent to be displayed in the Israeli Air Force Museum. In 2010, Singapore began retiring its E-2Cs as well. Both Israel and Singapore now employ the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) Eitam, a Gulfstream G550-based platform with Elta's EL/W-2085 sensor package (a newer derivative of the airborne Phalcon system) for their national AEW programs.{{cite news |first= Arie |last= Egozi |title= Israeli air force showcases G550 surveillance fleet |work= Flight International |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/03/23/339637/israeli-air-force-showcases-g550-surveillance-fleet.html |date= 23 March 2010 |access-date= 2010-08-06 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100331015333/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/03/23/339637/israeli-air-force-showcases-g550-surveillance-fleet.html |archive-date= March 31, 2010 |url-status= live}}
==Taiwan==
File:E-2K in Songshan Air Force Base 20110813.jpg
Taiwan acquired four E-2T aircraft from the US on 22 November 1995. On 15 April 2006 Taiwan commissioned two new E-2K Hawkeyes at an official ceremony at the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF) base in Pingtung Airport in southern Taiwan.
The four E-2Ts were approved for upgrade to Hawkeye 2000 configuration in a 2008 arms deal.{{cite web|url=http://www.taiwanairpower.org/af/e2t.html|title=ROCAF Northrop Grumman E-2T|work=taiwanairpower.org|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307034215/http://taiwanairpower.org/af/e2t.html|archive-date=March 7, 2016|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.dsca.osd.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2008/Taiwan_08-47.pdf|title=Defense Security Cooperation Agency News Release. October 3, 2008, retrieved Sept. 14, 2009|work=osd.mil|access-date=August 1, 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721171925/http://www.dsca.osd.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2008/Taiwan_08-47.pdf|archive-date=July 21, 2011|df=mdy-all}} The four E-2T aircraft were upgraded to what became known as E-2K standard in two batches, the first batch of two aircraft were sent to the United States in June 2010, arriving home in late 2011; on their return the second batch of two aircraft were sent for upgrade, returning to Taiwan in March 2013.{{cite news|last=Chen|first=Pei-haung|title=Taiwan receives upgraded E-2K early warning aircraft|url=http://focustaiwan.tw/news/aipl/201303090028.aspx|access-date=2013-06-02|newspaper=Focus Taiwan|date=2013-03-09|author2=Kao Y.L.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108135834/http://focustaiwan.tw/news/aipl/201303090028.aspx|archive-date=November 8, 2014|url-status=live}}
==Offers==
In August 2009, the U.S. Navy and Northrop Grumman briefed the Indian Navy on the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye on its potential use to satisfy its current shore-based and future carrier-based Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) requirements. The Indian Navy has reportedly expressed interest in acquiring up to six Hawkeyes.[http://aviationnow.com/aw/generic/story.jsp?id=news/awst/2010/06/14/AW_06_14_2010_p48-233219.xml&headline=Indian%20Navy%20Pursues%20Fixed-Wing%20Carrier%20AEW&channel=defense "Indian Navy Pursues Fixed-Wing Carrier AEW"] {{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}} Aviation Week[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/news/india/US-clears-Hawkeye-E-2D-aircraft-for-India/articleshow/5007550.cms "US clears Hawkeye E-2D aircraft for India"]. Times of India, 14 September 2009. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090922182154/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/news/india/US-clears-Hawkeye-E-2D-aircraft-for-India/articleshow/5007550.cms |date=September 22, 2009}}
Variants
File:E-2A VAW-11 CVA-43 1966.jpg
File:E-2B VAW-113 CV-43 1979.jpg
;W2F-1 : Original designation of the Hawkeye, changed to E-2A in 1962.
;E-2A : Initial production version, was W2F-1 before 1962. 59 built.
;TE-2A : Two E-2As converted as crew trainers.
;YC-2A : Two E-2As, BUNOs 148147 and 148148, converted as prototypes of the C-2 Greyhound
;E-2B : As E-2A but fitted with improved computing, enlarged outer fins. 52 converted from E-2A.
;YE-2C : Two E-2As, BUNOs 148712 and 148713, converted as E-2C prototypes. Designated as YE-2C and NE-2C respectively. These airframes then finished out their useful life being used as TE-2C pilot trainers.
;E-2C : As the E-2B but with all new electronics, surveillance radar and search radar, 63 built. In "plus-models" the E-2C also has upgraded turboprop engines.
:;E-2C Group 0
:: Initial production version of E-2C, fitted with AN/APS-120 or AN/APS-125 radar. Lengthened nose compared to earlier versionsGodfrey 1977, pp. 9–10.Jackson 2003, p. 687.
;;E-2C Group I
::New radar (AN/APS-139), plus upgraded mission computer and upgraded engines. 18 new build aircraft.Winchester Air International December 2005, p. 47.
;;E-2C Group 2
::AN/APS-145 radar, further improved electronics.
;;E-2C Group 2 Plus (Nav Upgrade)
::Avionics upgrade, inclusion of GPS into weapon system.{{citation needed|date=April 2015}}
;;E-2C Hawkeye 2000
::New mission computer, Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) and additional satellite communications aerial. Originally designated Group 2+.
;E-2D : A variant with new avionics suite, improved engines, a new "glass cockpit" and the potential for air-to-air refueling.
;E-2T/K : E-2C variant for Republic of China (Taiwan), with parts taken from retired E-2Bs (USN BuNos 151709, 151710, 151724, 152479).{{cite web|url=http://www.joebaugher.com/navy_serials/thirdseries19.html|title=US Navy/Marine Corps BuNos Third Series (150139 to 156169)|date=24 July 2010|publisher=Joe Baugher (JoeBaugher.Com)|access-date=4 October 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101008212915/http://www.joebaugher.com/navy_serials/thirdseries19.html|archive-date=October 8, 2010|url-status=dead}} However, these aircraft have the same level of electronics as the E-2C Group II Hawkeyes with their APS-145 radars and are referred to as E-2T, with "T" standing for Taiwan. On July 31, 1999, Taiwan was approved to acquire two additional E-2s built to Hawkeye 2000 standard. Later, the four original E-2Ts were also upgraded to the same standard. The upgraded aircraft were referred to as E-2Ks.{{cn|date=January 2024}}
Operators
File:Charles De Gaulle PascalSubtil 10.jpg Hawkeye preparing to be catapulted from the French aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle.]]
File:Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye Users.png
;{{EGY}}
- Egyptian Air Force{{cite web |title= World Air Forces 2014 |publisher= Flightglobal Insight |year= 2014 }}{{cite web |url=https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/e-2d-hawkeye-the-navys-new-awacs-03443/ |title=E-2D Hawkeye: The Navy's New AWACS |publisher=Defenseindustrydaily.com |date=2022-04-25 |accessdate=2022-05-02}}
- 87 Squadron
;{{FRA}}
- French Navy
- Flottille 4F (E-2C Hawkeye 2000){{cite web |url= https://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/aeronautique-navale-les-trois-hawkeye-francais-volent-ensemble |title= Aéronautique navale : Les trois Hawkeye français volent ensemble |language= Fr |publisher= meretmarine.com |access-date= 30 August 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180830110121/https://www.meretmarine.com/fr/content/aeronautique-navale-les-trois-hawkeye-francais-volent-ensemble |archive-date= August 30, 2018 |url-status= dead }}
;{{JPN}}
- Japan Air Self-Defense Force: As of March 2023, the JASDF operated 10 E-2Cs and 6 E-2Ds.[https://web.archive.org/web/20221206231056/https://www.mod.go.jp/j/publication/wp/wp2022/pdf/R04shiryo.pdf Defence of Japan 2022 (Annual White Paper). p.53.] Japan Ministry of Defence
- 601st Squadron (E-2C) & (E-2D)
- 603rd Squadron (E-2C) & (E-2D)
;{{MEX}}
- Mexican Navy
- 1st Early Warning and Reconnaissance Naval Air Squadron
;{{ROC}}
- Republic of China Air Force
- 6th Mixed Wing
File:E-2C Hawkeye and Mount Fuji.jpg flying by Mount Fuji, Japan]]
;{{USA}}
- United States Navy
- VAW-113{{cite web|url=http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw113/|title=VAW 113|publisher=navy.mil|access-date=10 October 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018185136/http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw113/|archive-date=October 18, 2014|df=mdy-all}}
- VAW-115{{Cite web |title=Airborne Command & Control Squadron (VAW) 115 "Liberty Bells" |url=https://www.airpac.navy.mil/Organization/Airborne-Command-Control-Squadron-VAW-115/About-Us/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110040902/https://www.airpac.navy.mil/Organization/Airborne-Command-Control-Squadron-VAW-115/About-Us/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 10, 2023 |access-date=26 June 2024 |website=Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet official website}}
- VAW-116{{cite web|url=http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw116/|title=VAW 116|publisher=navy.mil|access-date=10 October 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018185327/http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw116/|archive-date=October 18, 2014|df=mdy-all}}
- VAW-117{{cite web|url=http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw117/|title=VAW 117|publisher=navy.mil|access-date=10 October 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018185514/http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw117/|archive-date=October 18, 2014|df=mdy-all}}
- VAW-120{{cite web|url=http://www.vaw120.navy.mil/|title=VAW 120|publisher=navy.mil|access-date=10 October 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140520074109/http://www.vaw120.navy.mil/|archive-date=May 20, 2014|df=mdy-all}}
- VAW-121{{Cite web |title=Command History |url=https://www.airlant.usff.navy.mil/Organization/COMACCLOGWING/VAW-121/Command-History/ |access-date=26 June 2024 |website=Official website of Naval Air Force Atlantic (U.S. Navy)}}
- VAW-123{{cite web|url=http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw123/|title=VAW 123|publisher=navy.mil|access-date=10 October 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140801092910/http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw123/|archive-date=August 1, 2014|df=mdy-all}}
- VAW-124{{cite web|url= http://www.vaw124.navy.mil/|title= VAW 124|publisher= navy.mil|access-date= 10 October 2014|url-status= dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141027181056/http://www.vaw124.navy.mil/|archive-date= October 27, 2014|df= mdy-all}}
- VAW-125{{cite web|url= http://www.vaw125.navy.mil/|title= VAW 125|publisher= navy.mil|access-date= 10 October 2014|url-status= dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150120020110/http://www.vaw125.navy.mil/|archive-date= January 20, 2015|df= mdy-all}}
- VAW-126{{cite web|url= http://www.vaw126.navy.mil/|title= VAW 126|publisher= navy.mil|access-date= 10 October 2014|url-status= dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150119120843/http://www.vaw126.navy.mil/|archive-date= January 19, 2015|df= mdy-all}}
- VX-20{{cite web |url= http://www.vpnavy.com/vx20_history.html |title= VX-20 HistoryHistory |publisher= .vpnavy.com |access-date= 10 October 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141022120650/http://www.vpnavy.com/vx20_history.html |archive-date= October 22, 2014 |url-status= dead }}
- VX-30{{Cite web |title=Official Website |url=https://www.navair.navy.mil/nawcwd/VX30 |access-date=10 March 2023 |website=NAWCWD}}
- VX-1{{Cite web |title=Official Website |url=https://www.airlant.usff.navy.mil/vx1/ |access-date=10 March 2023 |website=Airlant}}
- Carrier Airborne Early Warning Weapons School{{Cite web |title=Official Website |url=https://www.airpac.navy.mil/Organization/Naval-Aviation-Warfighting-Development-Center/ |access-date=10 March 2023 |website=AIRPAC}}
= Former operators =
;{{ISR}}
- Israeli Air Force{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-operates-707-in-aew-role-10034/ |title= Israel operates 707 in AEW role |publisher= flightglobal.com |date= 1996-11-20 |access-date= 10 October 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141018183807/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-operates-707-in-aew-role-10034/ |archive-date= October 18, 2014 |url-status= live}}
- 192 Squadron{{Cite web |title=192 Squadron |url=http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/waf/aa-mideast/israel/af/units/192sqn.htm |access-date=10 March 2023 |website=Aeroflight}}
;{{SIN}}
- Republic of Singapore Air Force{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/singapore-declares-g550-aew-fully-operational-370768/|title=Singapore declares G550 AEW fully operational|publisher=flightglobal.com|date=April 17, 2012|access-date=10 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018183552/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/singapore-declares-g550-aew-fully-operational-370768/|archive-date=October 18, 2014|url-status=live}}
- 111 Squadron
;{{USA}}
- U.S. Coast Guard{{cite web |url= http://www.uscg.mil/history/stations/airsta_staugustine.asp |title= Air Station St. Augustine, Florida |publisher= uscg.mil |access-date= 10 October 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141025095743/http://www.uscg.mil/history/stations/airsta_staugustine.asp |archive-date= October 25, 2014 |url-status= live}}
- U.S. Navy (decommissioned squadrons)
- VAW-11
- VAW-12
- VAW-77
- VAW-78
- VAW-88
- VAW-110
- VAW-112{{cite web |url=http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw112/e2c.html |title=VAW 112 |publisher=navy.mil |access-date=10 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018185511/http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vaw112/e2c.html |archive-date=October 18, 2014 |url-status=dead }}
- VAW-114
- VAW-122
- VAW-127
In popular culture
{{main|Aircraft in fiction#Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye}}
Aircraft on display
File:E-2 Hawkeye Pax River Museum-2.jpg
File:E-2 Hawkeye USS Midway Museum-3.jpg
- E-2B, BuNo 150540, National Naval Aviation Museum, Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida{{cite web|url=http://www.aero-web.org/locator/manufact/grumman/e-2.htm|title=Grumman E-2 (Hawkeye)|work=Aviation Enthusiast Corner|access-date=26 November 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303200403/http://www.aero-web.org/locator/manufact/grumman/e-2.htm|archive-date=March 3, 2016|df=mdy-all}}
- E-2B, BuNo 152476, Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, NAS Patuxent River, Maryland
- E-2B, BuNo 152484, Air Victory Museum, Lumberton, New Jersey
- E-2B, BuNo 150541, NAS Norfolk Air Park (adjacent Gate 4), Naval Station Norfolk/Chambers Field (former NAS Norfolk), Virginia. Early E-2C variant nose cap installed for static display.
- E-2C, BuNo 159496, Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada.
- E-2C, BuNo 160012, Garden City, NY as part of Cradle of Naval Aviation Display
- E-2C, 944, Israeli Air Force Museum, Hatzerim Air Base, Israel
- E-2C, BuNo 160992, on base memorial display, NAS Point Mugu, California
- E-2C, BuNo 161227, flight deck display aboard USS Midway Museum, San Diego, California{{cite web|url=http://www.midwaysaircraft.org/acft/E2C.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040712225152/http://www.midwaysaircraft.org/acft/E2C.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 12, 2004|title=E2-C 161227|first=John|last=Njaa|work=midwaysaircraft.org|access-date=August 1, 2016}}
- E-2C, BuNo 161098, on display at former NAS Atlanta, GA
- E-2C, BuNo 161344, awaiting restoration at Yanks Air Museum, Chino, CA
- E-2C, BuNo 162796, Singapore Air Force Museum, Singapore{{cite web|url=http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/mindef_websites/atozlistings/air_force/about/museum.html|title=The Air Force Museum|work=Ministry of Defence Singapore|access-date=26 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706111640/http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/mindef_websites/atozlistings/air_force/about/museum.html|archive-date=July 6, 2015|url-status=dead}}
- E-2C, BuNo 164494, National Naval Aviation Museum, Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL. This aircraft was the last to launch from {{USS|Enterprise|CVN-65|6}} prior to her inactivation.
Specifications (E-2C)
File:Grumman E-2C Hawkeye 0014.svg
{{Aircraft specs
|ref=US Navy fact file{{cite web|url=http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=700&ct=1|title=The US Navy – Fact File: E-2 Hawkeye early warning and control aircraft|first=Dan|last=Petty|work=navy.mil|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019025728/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=700&ct=1|archive-date=October 19, 2016|url-status=dead}} E-2D Storybook (page 25){{cite web|url=http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/E2CHawkeye2000/Documents/pageDocuments/E-2D_Storybook.pdf|title=E-2D_Storybook|work=northropgrumman.com|access-date=August 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303222855/http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/E2CHawkeye2000/Documents/pageDocuments/E-2D_Storybook.pdf|archive-date=March 3, 2016|url-status=live}}
|prime units?=kts
|crew=5: pilot, copilot, radar officer (RO), combat information center officer (CICO), aircraft control officer (ACO)
|length ft=57
|length in=8+3/4
|length note=
|span ft=80
|span in=7
|span note=
|height ft=18
|height in=3+3/4
|height note= : Radome could retract by {{convert|2|ft|m|1}} to fit into the {{cvt|17|ft|6|in|m}} clear height hangar of Essex and Midway class carriers. Retraction function no longer used.
|wing area sqft=700
|wing area note=Jackson 2003, pp. 688–689.
|aspect ratio=9.15
|airfoil=root: NACA 63A216; tip: NACA 63A414{{cite web |last1=Lednicer |first1=David |title=The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url=https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website=m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date=16 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190326174850/https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |archive-date=March 26, 2019 |url-status=live}}
|empty weight lb=40200
|empty weight note=
|gross weight lb=43068
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight lb=57500
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity=
|more general=
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 name=Allison/Rolls-Royce T56-A-427 (E-2C), T56-A-427A (E-2D)
|eng1 type=turboprop
|eng1 shp=5100
|eng1 note=
|prop blade number=
|prop name=
|prop dia m=
|prop dia ft=
|prop dia in=
|prop dia note=
|max speed kts=350
|max speed note=
|max speed mach=
|cruise speed kts=256
|cruise speed note=
|stall speed kts=
|stall speed note=
|never exceed speed kts=
|never exceed speed note=
|minimum control speed kts=
|minimum control speed note=
|range nmi=
|range note=
|combat range nmi=
|combat range note=
|ferry range nmi=1462
|ferry range note=
|ceiling ft=34700
|ceiling note=
|g limits=
|roll rate=
|climb rate ftmin=
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|wing loading lb/sqft=72.7
|wing loading note=
|fuel consumption lb/mi=
|power/mass={{cvt|0.19|hp/lb}}
|more performance=
|avionics=
- AN/APS-145 Radar
- OL-483/AP IFF interrogator system
- APX-100 IFF Transponder
- OL-698/ASQ Tactical Computer Group
- AN/ARC-182 UHF/VHF radio
- AN/ARC-158 UHF radio
- AN/ARQ-34 HF radio
- AN/USC-42 Mini-DAMA SATCOM system
}}
See also
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|see also=
|related=
|similar aircraft=
- Airborne Surveillance Platform (Airavat)
- Boeing E-3 Sentry
- Boeing E-767
- Fairey Gannet AEW.3
- Hawker Siddeley P.139B
- Lockheed P-3 AEW
- Shaanxi KJ-200
- Xian JZY-01 / KJ-600
- Yakovlev Yak-44
|lists=
}}
References
=Notes=
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}
=Bibliography=
- Donald, David, ed. "E-2 Hawkeye". Warplanes of the Fleet. AIRtime, 2004. {{ISBN|1-880588-81-1}}.
- {{Cite book|editor-last=Eden|editor-first=Paul|title=The Encyclopedia of Modern Military Aircraft|location=London|publisher=Amber Books|year=2004|isbn=978-1-904687-84-9}}
- Godfrey, David W. H. "Hawkeye:A New Dimension in Tactical Warfare". Air International, January 1977, Vol 12 No 1. Bromley, UK:Fine Scroll. pp. 7–13, 42–44.
- Jackson, Mark. Jane's All The World's Aircraft 2003–2004. Coulsdon, UK: Jane's Information Group, 2003. {{ISBN|0-7106-2537-5}}.
- Neubeck, Ken. E-2 Hawkeye Walk Around. Squadron/Signal Publications, 2008. {{ISBN|0-89747-555-0}}.
- Swanborough, Gordon and Peter M. Bowers. United States Navy Aircraft since 1911. London:Putnam, Second edition, 1976. {{ISBN|0-370-10054-9}}.
- Taylor, John W. R. Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1976–77. London:Jane's Yearbooks, 1976. {{ISBN|0-354-00538-3}}.
- Winchester, Jim. "E-2 Hawkeye Developments". Air International, December 2005, Vol 69 No 6. Stamford, UK:Key Publishing. pp. 46–49.
- Winchester, Jim, ed. Military Aircraft of the Cold War (The Aviation Factfile). London: Grange Books plc, 2006. {{ISBN|1-84013-929-3}}.
External links
{{Commons}}
- [http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=700&ct=1 E-2 fact file] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019025728/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=700&ct=1 |date=October 19, 2016 }} and [http://www.history.navy.mil/planes/e2.htm E-2C Hawkeye history page on US Navy site] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060806142244/http://www.history.navy.mil/planes/e2.htm |date=August 6, 2006 }}
- [http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/e-2d-hawkeye-the-navys-new-awacs-03443/ E-2D Hawkeye: The Navy's New AWACS] on Defense Industry Daily
- [https://web.archive.org/web/20070927180030/http://www.irconnect.com/noc/press/pages/news_releases.html?d=124332 "Northrop Grumman E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Completes First Flight", Northrop Grumman, 3 August 2007]
- [https://web.archive.org/web/20050315071829/http://www.netmarine.net/aero/aeronefs/hawkeye/photos.htm Gallery of photographs of the French E-2C Hawkeye on NetMarine.net] {{in lang|fr}}
- [http://www.taiwanairpower.org/af/e2t.html Taiwan Air Power E-2T page] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307034215/http://taiwanairpower.org/af/e2t.html |date=March 7, 2016 }}
{{Grumman aircraft}}
{{USN AEW aircraft}}
{{US EW aircraft}}
{{Authority control}}
Category:1960s United States military reconnaissance aircraft
Category:Carrier-based aircraft
Category:Twin-turboprop tractor aircraft
Category:Aircraft first flown in 1960