Image: Northrop Grumman ©
Northrop Grumman has completed a government-led critical design review for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye’s Block II upgrade, clearing the way for the most significant modernisation in the platform’s history, as per a recent press statement.
The company will now begin integration and testing, with Block II aircraft delivery expected by the end of the decade. The upgrade overhauls the E-2D’s mission system software and hardware, sharpening situational awareness and reducing crew workload.
Block II relies on a modular open systems approach and commercial off-the-shelf technology. This design cuts costs and strengthens long-term sustainment across the fleet. Northrop Grumman plans to fit the upgrade into new aircraft on its active production line, while also retrofitting existing airframes. That dual approach expands upgrade capacity across the fleet.
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye serves as an airborne early warning command and control platform, built specifically for battle management missions. The programme underpins more than 4,000 jobs at 411 companies spread across 40 US states, reinforcing the domestic defence industrial base.
Janice Zilch, vice president and E-2D Advanced Hawkeye programme manager at Northrop Grumman, commented: “Completing the Block II critical design review reflects the dedication and expertise of our team and partners.” She added that the upgrade “strengthens the E-2D’s suite of capabilities, enhancing situational awareness, reducing crew workload and paving the way for future technology.”
Zilch said the company remains focused on delivering capability quickly to the US Navy and its international partners.
Continuous modernisation keeps the E-2D relevant against evolving threats, ensuring joint forces retain critical airborne early warning capability well into the future.
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