US and Japan award $1.5 billion contract to procure 9 E-2D Hawkeye AEWAC aircraft

Asia-Pacific, News, US July 24, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) awarded nearly $1.5 billion to Northrop Grumman to produce 9 E-2D Advanced Hawkeye airborne early warning and control (AEWAC) aircraft, to be used jointly by the U.S. Navy and the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).

Under the terms of the contract, the U.S. Navy will receive 4 additional E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft, while the JASDF will expand its fleet with 5 units. The Japanese government has committed $766.64 million from Foreign Military Sales (FMS) funds to support this acquisition. While the rest of the funds will be paid by the U.S.

Northrop Grumman, a leading defense contractor, continues to play a pivotal role in developing and delivering advanced military technology. Most of the work for this contract will be performed in Florida, with an estimated completion date of March 2029. This contract not only boosts Northrop Grumman’s business prospects but also solidifies its position as a key provider of airborne early warning and control systems.

The contract highlights the strategic importance of maintaining advanced surveillance and early warning capabilities. The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye’s ability to provide expanded battlespace awareness and manage missions effectively makes it a vital asset for both the U.S. and Japanese defense forces. Often referred to as the “digital quarterback” of the U.S. Navy, the aircraft’s capabilities ensure that battle groups remain out of harm’s way and can efficiently execute their missions.

U.S. E-2D Hawkeye lands on the flight deck aboard the USS Ronald Reagan — *^{A Northrop Grumman-built E-2D Hawkeye lands on the flight deck aboard the USS Ronald Reagan during flight operations in the Philippine Sea on June 14. (Image Credit: U.S. Navy)}*

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye plays a crucial role in modern military operations, providing comprehensive situational awareness of potential threats to naval task forces from altitudes of up to 25,000 feet. The aircraft’s sophisticated radar and sensor systems enable it to identify threats and provide positional data to accompanying fighter aircraft, enhancing overall mission effectiveness.

Advanced features

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye represents a significant technological leap from its predecessor, the E-2C. Key advancements include:

Updated Radar System: Equipped with the AN/APY-9 radar, the E-2D offers superior detection capabilities and higher resolution, allowing for more accurate threat identification.

Missile Defense Capabilities: Advanced systems onboard the E-2D enhance its ability to detect and track missile threats, providing critical data for defensive actions.

Multi-Sensor Integration: The aircraft integrates data from various sensors, creating a comprehensive operational picture that improves decision-making processes.

Tactical Glass Cockpit: Featuring state-of-the-art displays and controls, the cockpit enhances pilot efficiency and situational awareness.

These enhancements ensure that the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye remains at the forefront of airborne early warning and control technology, capable of performing a wide range of roles, including command and control, surveillance, guiding search and rescue missions, and extending communication ranges.

The E-2D Hawkeye first flew in 2007 and entered military service in 2010. Powered by two Rolls Royce turboprop engines, it can travel up to 2,707 kilometers at speeds reaching 648 kilometers.