E-2D Advanced Hawkeye

Northrop Grumman has won a $3.2 billion contract to supply 24 E-2D Advanced Hawkeye early warning aircraft to the United States (US) Navy.

The contract provides full-rate production Lots 7-11 for the E-2D AHE aircraft, which are nicknamed "Super Fudd" because it replaced the E-1 Tracer "Willy Fudd."

Northrop Grumman said it plans to deliver a series of capability upgrades. The third upgrade is slated for release this fall, including an aerial refueling capability to significantly extend the aircraft's endurance.

With its radar technology, E-2D twin engine, five crew member, high-wing turboprop aircraft works with ship-, air- and land-based combat systems to track and defeat air, ship and cruise missiles at extended range. The aircraft also can also be used in a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capacity for civilian emergency coordination

The company has previously delivered 37 E-2D to the US Navy to date under the current program of record. In August 2007, Northrop Grumman completed its successful first flight of the plane.

Work for the current contract is expected to be completed by August 2026.