“In today’s increasingly contested operating environments, maintaining the advantage requires sensing threats sooner and making decisions faster,” Warden said. “Northrop Grumman’s latest E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Block II upgrade ensures this critical command-and-control aircraft continues to evolve alongside the mission and ahead of the threat — while supporting interoperability, long-term sustainability and cost efficiency.”
Warden also linked the upgrade to interoperability, fleet sustainability and lower long-term costs. “I’m proud of our team for their work to advance this capability, equipping the E-2D with decisive, multi-domain advantage today and well into the future.”
Northrop Grumman will begin Block II integration and testing immediately following the completed review. The company plans to deliver upgraded aircraft by the end of the decade.
The company describes Block II as the most significant enhancement since the E-2D was developed. The upgrade is intended to improve situational awareness and crew efficiency while preparing the aircraft to respond to changing threats.
Block II uses a modular open systems approach and commercial off-the-shelf technology. Northrop Grumman said the design would reduce costs and support long-term fleet sustainment and future modernization.
The upgrade will be incorporated into the active E-2D production line for new aircraft. Northrop Grumman will also retrofit aircraft already in service, increasing capacity for upgrades across the existing fleet.
