Northrop Grumman completes critical design review for E-2D Hawkeye upgrade

Northrop Grumman has successfully completed the government-led Critical Design Review (CDR) for the Block II upgrade of the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye. This airborne early warning aircraft is used for radar surveillance, command, and control missions.

The Block II upgrade is described as the most significant modernization in the platform’s history. It aims to drastically improve situational awareness and crew efficiency while future-proofing the aircraft against evolving threats. By utilizing a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products, the upgrade is designed to reduce costs and support long-term fleet sustainment.

Northrop Grumman will integrate the Block II standard into the active production line for new aircraft and perform retrofits on existing fleet aircraft. Integration and testing will begin immediately, with the goal of delivering the first configured aircraft by the end of the decade.