E-2D Advanced Hawkeye completes first aerial refuelling from French aircraft in joint testing

The refuelling involved Rafale, MRTT and A400M aircraft from the French Navy and Air Force, and was part of a joint effort between the U.S. E-2/C-2 Airborne Command & Control Systems Program Office (PMA-231) and France’s procurement agency, Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA). The collaboration aims to prepare for the French Navy’s future transition from the E-2C to the E-2D starting in 2028.

“DGA and the French Navy will continue additional aerial refueling testing and pilot training in France as they replace their E-2Cs beginning in 2028,” the U.S. Navy said. France became the second international customer for the E-2D in December 2020, acquiring three French variant aircraft.

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeyeintroduces a two-generation upgrade over the older E-2C, with major improvements in radar capability, aircraft systems, and operational readiness. Its APY-9 radar enables advanced detection and tracking of threats in a range of environments, including overland and open ocean.

With the integration of refuelling capability, the aircraft is now able to remain airborne longer, significantly extending its surveillance and command-and-control role. “With the addition of aerial refueling capabilities, the E-2D remains the most advanced command and control platform in the world,” the Navy stated.