Quantcast

US Navy advances airborne command capabilities with upgraded E-2D Hawkeyes

Travelers are taking extreme measures and using hacks to avoid airline baggage fees
Pigeons Cause Chaos on Delta Flight
United Airlines’ Uniforms Get A Facelift—And A Political Filter
United Continues to Face Catering Chaos at San Francisco
Passenger Stows Away on Delta Flight from New York to Paris
Wizz Air becomes first airline to operate P&W-powered Airbus A321XLR jet
Hawaiian Airlines’ new ‘no show’ policy may make travel more expensive
BLIMP-SE OF THE FUTURE Luxury zeppelins of the future from ‘flying bum’ world’s largest aircraft to Google billionaire’s ‘impossible’ airship
Swiss Startup SmartFlyer Develops Hybrid-Electric Trainer
San Francisco-based entrepreneur takes a trip on India's worst-rated airline, his reaction will surprise you
First-Time Flyer at 81: A Grandmother's Memorable Journey
Ryanair forecasts fare rebound as consumers recover from interest-rate hit
Global Airlines Launches Inaugural Flight, Aiming to Revive 'Golden Age of Travel'
Winning routes: American Airlines adds more than 22,000 seats for football fans following release of 2025–2026 pro schedule
Boeing scores Middle East plane deal during Trump visit
Air travel will be ‘worse’ this summer, lawmakers warn — as FAA gives infuriating update on system fixes, staffing issues
Qatar Airways places record $96 billion Boeing order amid Trump visit
United Airlines CEO Reassures Passengers About Newark Airport Safety
American Testing Tech to Help Passengers Make Connecting Flights
British Airways to use AI in efforts to improve operations
American Airlines Tests New Tech to Help Passengers With Tight Connections During Summer Rush
Flight Diverted After Pregnant Woman on Board Goes into Labor and Delivers Her Baby: Report
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby says "this is the most optimistic I've been in my entire career about finally getting the FAA fixed"
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Unveils Plan to Build Brand New, State-of-the-Art Air Traffic Control System
Passenger rushing for next flight can't believe what woman next to her does
Why fuel price crash won’t make flying cheaper
Kristi Noem says travelers without Real ID will still be able to fly after deadline
Frontier Airlines Announces New Routes Launching This Summer, Connecting Baltimore With Chicago O’Hare and Trenton, N.J. With Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Airlines in North America prioritize investments in cyber, AI
The evolution of the airline uniform — a cross check
US Navy advances airborne command capabilities with upgraded E-2D Hawkeyes
Policy
Webp 9d8e4n9zvnq6npvse1f7c4oouh5n
Airbus A380 | Airbus

The United States Navy (USN) operates a specialized fleet of Airborne Early Warning, Command and Control squadrons utilizing the Grumman E-2 Hawkeye aircraft. These squadrons perform roles similar to the Air Force's AWACS but are distinct in their operations from aircraft carriers.

The Navy's aircrew for these missions consists of five officers, significantly fewer than the dozen or more aboard land-based AWACS. The training for these aviators is extensive due to the demanding nature of operating an E-2 Hawkeye.

Since 1964, the E-2 Hawkeye has been central to the Navy's airborne surveillance capabilities. The newer E-2D model features advanced radar and avionics systems. Northrop Grumman describes it as “...a game changer in how the Navy conducts battle management command and control."

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Airborne Command & Control Squadrons are based on both coasts of the U.S., with significant presences at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia and Point Mugu in California. The Fleet Replacement Squadron VAW-120 trains new graduates in Virginia, while VAW-125 operates out of Japan alongside the Seventh Fleet.

The US Naval Institute highlights how crucial the Hawkeye is during deployments, acting as air traffic control and providing emergency assistance when needed. Known as "hummers" for their engine sound, these aircraft fulfill essential roles such as surveillance and reconnaissance.

Military.com notes that the E-2C Hawkeye provides all-weather early warning functions with advanced radar capable of tracking numerous targets simultaneously. Recent upgrades include aerial refueling capabilities, extending operational time significantly.

Transitioning from E-2C to E-2D represents a major leap in radar sensor capability according to Northrop Grumman: "The new radar system in the E-2D significantly enhances our detection capabilities." With a $22 billion investment plan, 80 aircraft are expected by 2026.

International interest has grown around this technology, with countries like Japan planning acquisitions following U.S. approval for export sales valued at $1.5 billion. As global threats evolve, America’s Navy continues its readiness bolstered by advancements like those found within its airborne command fleet.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) anticipates that Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production will reach 2 million tonnes, equivalent to 0.7% of total airline fuel consumption by 2025.

Jun 1, 2025

Emirates Airline has entered into a partnership with Al Ain Football Club, which will see the airline become the Official Airline Partner for the club during the 2025/26 season.

Jun 1, 2025

IATA has called on governments to eliminate barriers preventing airlines from repatriating revenues from ticket sales and other activities.

Jun 1, 2025

IndiGo, Delta Air Lines, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic have announced a strategic partnership aimed at connecting India with Europe and North America.

Jun 1, 2025

As the aviation industry recovers in 2025, airlines face critical decisions when expanding their fleets.

Jun 1, 2025

In the United States, five airlines are currently operating Boeing 737 MAX aircraft: Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.

Jun 1, 2025