France Finalizes Deal for Next-Gen E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Aircraft from Northrop Grumman
France is on the verge of acquiring three E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft to succeed its current E-2C models.
As per a recent announcement from the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command, France has become the second international buyer of the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, with a signed Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) to obtain three E-2D aircraft from the U.S. Navy, valued at up to $2 billion.
“The E-2/C-2 program office is eager to further our enduring partnership with France and to commence a new era with the E-2D,” stated Capt. Pete Arrobio, program manager of the E-2/C-2 Airborne Command & Control Systems Program Office (PMA-231). “This acquisition will enhance interoperability between the U.S. Fleet and its international allies.”
The three E-2Ds are set for delivery by 2028, replacing the current three E-2C Hawkeyes utilized by the French Navy, or Marine Nationale.
The LOA enables the U.S. Navy to initiate contracting processes with Northrop Grumman for the production of E-2D airborne command and control platforms. The authorized LOA ensures the sale encompasses three E-2D aircraft, along with nonrecurring engineering, spare parts, repair services, support equipment, training, and ongoing assistance, all within the approved funding limit. An anticipated contract award is expected in 2022, with aircraft deliveries to France by 2028 at the latest.
“Acquiring the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye will grant France a remarkable enhancement in capabilities for superior situational awareness of their air defense fleets,” remarked Janice Zilch, vice president of manned airborne surveillance programs at Northrop Grumman. “We share a solid relationship with France as it transitions from a two-decade legacy of E-2C aircraft to the E-2D.”
The French Navy has been using the E-2C Hawkeye since 1998, and it is the only nation besides the United States that operates E-2 Hawkeyes from an aircraft carrier. This feature permits interoperability exercises that enable support among Hawkeyes from different carrier flight decks. As the U.S. Navy transitions to E-2D squadrons, the French Navy aims to sustain interoperability and collaboration by procuring three E-2D aircraft.
The E-2D serves as the U.S. Navy’s leading airborne command and control aircraft for all targets and conditions. It offers advanced radar capabilities for exceptional detection and tracking. Furthermore, it enables 360-degree simultaneous air and maritime surveillance, allowing nations to secure sea lanes, monitor coastlines, and assist in civilian emergency coordination operations. The E-2D acts as a significant force multiplier for interoperability, information sharing, and standardization across the operational force.
