The
Airborne Command Control and Logistics Wing announced Oct. 16 that the
latest variant of the E-2 aircraft, the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, achieved
Initial Operational Capability Oct. 10. IOC signifies that the first
operational squadron, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW)
125, is manned, trained, equipped and ready to start deployment preparation
with E-2D aircraft. |
The U.S. Navy announced that the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye
achieved Initial Operational Capability Oct. 10. IOC signifies that
the first operational squadron, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron
(VAW) 125, is manned, trained, equipped and ready to start deployment
preparation. The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye joins the E-2C in providing its
airborne early warning, command and control capability to the carrier
strike group. (U.S. Navy photo) |
“The
E-2D can detect smaller targets, at longer ranges, over water, in littoral
areas, and over land in dense clutter environments, giving significant
increases in flexibility and situational awareness to the warfighter
beyond the capabilities of previous variants of the Hawkeye,”
said Capt. John Lemmon, E-2/C-2 Airborne Tactical Data System Program
Office (PMA-231) program manager.
The Navy has relied upon E-2 aircraft and aircrew since 1964, when the
first E-2 Hawkeye was delivered to VAW-11. In honor of 50 years of service
and continued technological advancement, PMA-231 has designated 2014
the “Year of the Hawkeye.”
“As an E-2 pilot of 24 years, I’ve experienced firsthand
the benefit these aircraft bring to the fleet,” Lemmon said.
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye is the newest variant of the E-2 aircraft
platform. It features a state-of-the-art radar and upgraded aircraft
systems that improve supportability and increase readiness. The E-2D
Advanced Hawkeye joins the F/A-18 and EA-18G Growler to comprise the
future carrier flight deck, continuing the Navy’s integrated warfighting
legacy.
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, along with the E-2C, provides command and
control capability to coordinate multiple missions, including air warfare,
strike warfare, surface warfare and search and rescue operations. Acting
as a “digital quarterback,” the E-2D scans the environment
with its onboard sensors and processes this data with its tactical mission
computer. It distributes the tactical picture to command centers and
other assets through onboard communication subsystems. The Navy also
utilizes this capability to participate in humanitarian and disaster
relief operations. |
