New E-2D Hawkeyes deploy with enhanced radar, computer capability to USS Theodore Roosevelt
NewsMarch 16, 2015
NORFOLK, VA – Five E-2D Advance Hawkeyes begin their first deployment this month aboard the carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), with new radar and enhanced computer processing capabilities.
The aircraft’s radar is more advanced, its computer processing capabilities have been improved, and the communication suites have also been upgraded, says Cmdr. Daryl Trent, commanding officer of VAW-125.
These new E-2Ds are assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125 as part of the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1.
The E-2D Hawkeye will replace the E-2C in its primary mission, which is the same as the E-2C, to provide airborne early warning and command and control capabilities for all battle groups. The E-2D met its Initial Operational Capabil-ity last spring after completing testing and evaluation at Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River, Md.
The Advanced Hawkeye’s technology enables a multi-mission platform that has airborne strike, ground force support, and rescue operations. It can also manage a communication network that enables drug interdiction operations.
The Navy plans to replace all E2-C Hawkeyes with the advanced Hawkeye through 2023.
NAS Patuxent River experts are also developing future upgrades to the E-2D such as aerial refueling, which will allow E-2D Hawkeye aircrews to stay on mission longer.
