E-2C HAWKEYE

The E-2C is an early warning and control platform, whose task is to provide airborne radar
coverage around the CVBG (Carrier Battle Group). Practically, this includes everything from
warning of enemy air attacks on the battle group to warning an inbound strike package of hostile
fighter activity. The E-2 serves in a very similar role as that of the USAF E-3 AWACS. For this
reason, E-2s are sometimes called "mini - AWACS." However, the E-2C does offer some
advantages which the E-3 does not. For instance, the Hawkeye can provide its radar operators
with raw radar data rather than only computer-generated, processed information. In some cases
(with a skilled operator at the console) this can mean picking up contacts that the signal
processors miss.

The Hawkeye normally carries a crew of five (the Pilot, Copilot, Combat Information Center
Officer (CICO), Air Control Officer (ACO), and the Radar Officer(RO). Driven by a pair of
fuel-efficient T-56 Allison turboprops, the Hawkeye can stay on station for more than five hours.
Its avionics suite includes the powerful AN/APS-138 radar, whose antenna is mounted in the
trademark "frizbee" dome on top of the aircraft. The Hawkeye also includes a collection of
sophisticated sensors which enable the CIC crew to analyze and classify over 1000 contacts
over land or sea. The stated coverage of a single E-2C is roughly three million cubic miles.

The E-2C+ upgrade includes radar improvements, software upgrades, and more powerful
engines. Further plans include upgrading the whole E-2 fleet to Block I and II status, which mean
a new radar (APS-139 and APS-145, respectively) and overall improved processing capability.
There currently is one squadron of four Hawkeyes in each carrier air wing (CVW).

E-2C Hawkeye Specifications

DIMENSIONS

Wingspan.................................................80 ft. 7 in.

Length.....................................................57 ft. 9 in.

Height.....................................................18 ft. 4 in.

Wing Area................................................700 sq. ft.

Weight

Empty....................................................40,484 lbs.

Max Fuel (internal)...................................12,400 lbs.

Max Take-off Gross Weight........................54,426 lbs.

Performance

Cruise Speed...........................................260 kts.

Service Ceiling.........................................37,000 ft.

Ferry Range.............................................1,540 nm.

Takeoff run..............................................1,850 ft.

Propulsion

Two Allison T56-A-427 turboprop engines (5,100 ESHP each)


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