VAW-123 is retiring its last E-2C Hawkeye

On September 9, 2024, VAW-123 deployed two of its E-2C Hawkeye AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) aircraft to the Boneyard, the world’s largest aircraft maintenance and storage facility, located at Center the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, in Tucson.

This move is part of the squadron’s transition process towards the upgraded E-2D Advanced Hawkeye model, which is expected to be completed in mid-2025, according to a public statement issued by the commander of the Atlantic Fleet Air Force.

The other two planes E-2C Hawkeye Those remaining in VAW-123 were transferred to VAW-120, the Fleet Replacement Squadron, with the purpose of contributing to the training of a new generation of Hawkeye pilots.

Among the pilots selected to fly one of these E-2Cs on its final mission to the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Repair Group (AMARG), at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, was Lt . Terrance Lawrence, of VAW-123.

The E-2C has played a vital role in the Navy’s command and control missions for over 50 years. Since 1973, VAW-123 has operated this aircraft, using it in a wide range of operations, including military operations, search and rescue, anti-drug controlhumanitarian missions and disaster relief.

It was Lawrence’s first opportunity to deliver an aircraft that was about to retire, something he greatly appreciated: “It was a unique opportunity, not something many aviators get to do. It was a special moment and I signed up immediately” said Lawrence.

The transition to the E-2D is picking up the VAW-123 after saying goodbye to the E-2C

Lieutenant Avesta Shwany, also a VAW-123 pilot, was the one who flew the second E-2C aircraft to the “Boneyard,” reflecting on saying goodbye to her crew in Norfolk.

“Being part of the final team was an emotional experience. This plane will take it multiple memoriesespecially since its recent deployment to the Red Sea,” Shwany said.

For her and her crew, saying goodbye to this iconic aircraft celebrating the end of an era and the beginning of his transition to E-2D. “We were surprised at how emotional it was to leave him behind,” Shwany said.

For his part, Lieutenant Lawrence expressed his pride in being the last man to pilot an E-2C for VAW-123. As a symbolic gesture, he and his team they signed inside the plane farewell “This plane has a special meaning, especially after those nine months in the Red Sea,” said Lawrence.

Before delivering the plane to Davis-Monthan Base, the ten crew members took a moment to touch the fuselage in a final farewell.

The squadron also took the opportunity to tour the aircraft graveyard, where more than 4,000 aircraft are preserved, easing the history of aviation. “It is an honor to be one of the last pilots to fly this aircraft,” said Lawrence.

With VAW-123 already operating the E-2D, VAW-116, the Navy’s west coast squadron, will be the last naval squadron to continue flying the E-2C until it is retired. Lawrence, meanwhile, is looking forward to piloting the E-2D.

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye: key in early warning and air control

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye (AHE) is the latest evolution of the E-2 series, which has been the cornerstone of the US Navy’s air early warning and battle management capability for many years.

This is a set of the latest generation model positive developments making it significantly more capable and versatile than before. These upgrades have been implemented to ensure that the aircraft meets the demands of today’s conflict.

One of the most distinctive features of the E-2D is its state-of-the-art radar, which, according to the Navy, represents promote two generations compared to previous models. This improved radar system significantly extends the detection range, offers greater target resolution and improves tracking accuracy.

Thanks to these improvements, the E-2D is able to cover large areas both at sea and on land, making the most of the fleet’s capabilities. maintain proper situational awareness.

The increased detection range and ability to operate on land allows the E-2D to operate effectively in coastal areas, providing essential coverage in complex environments where threats can arise from different areas.

These expanded detection and tracking capabilities are critical to protecting the fleet and protecting US interests.

A key feature that differentiates the E-2D is its function as a “Digital Right Back” in the heavens Unlike the previous ones, it not only provides information, but also works as a control and integrated control node.

This makes it a key piece for managing multiple missions at once, whether coordinating air operations, collaborating with ground forces, supporting search and rescue missionsor serving as a point of contact in scattered fleets.

The E-2D: multi-mission capabilities and aerial refueling

The Hawkeye’s versatility has been essential in various operations, such as those at drug interventionwhere coordination between different agencies and resources is essential.

Among the most important improvements to the E-2D is its Fully integrated “glass cockpit”.together with the introduction of a tactical screen for the fourth operator, which gives more flexibility to the team, made up of five people.

This crew includes two pilots and three mission systems operators, with the co-pilot capable of being a fourth operator, allowing crew tasks to be adjusted according to the changing mission needs in real time. This increases the multi-mission capability of the aircraft.

A major breakthrough for the E-2D program is the integration of the refuel in flight. Since reaching initial operational capability (IOC) in fiscal year 2020, this upgrade has changed the operational profile of the E-2D, significantly extending the time it can remain on station.

With the ability to refuel mid-flight, the Hawkeye can operate almost indefinitely, limited only by the physical stability of the crew and the condition of the aircraft. This larger operating range enabling longer surveillance and command and control missions over longer periods, covering larger areas and supporting long-term operations.

E-2D AHE models that are equipped with refueling capabilities also include several structural and ergonomic improvements. Among them are reinforced seats for durability, improved fuel systems, and new exterior lighting designed to make nighttime operations easier.

Regarding the technical specifications of the E-2D, it has a total length of 17.2 meters and a wingspan of 24.2 meters. It is powered by two Rolls-Royce T56-A-427A turboprop engines, each capable of generating 5,100 horsepower.

With a top speed of over 300 knots and an operational ceiling of 11,200 meters, the E-2D can effectively reach high-altitude strategic points. These technical capabilities They make it an agile and efficient aircraft for high performance missions.