Northrop strengthens support for JASDF E-2C Hawkeye programme

Northrop Grumman has signed an exclusive five-year agreement with AAR and Sumitomo to launch a just-in-time inventory management process to support the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s (JASDF) E-2C Hawkeye aircraft programme.

Initially acquired to provide over the horizon early warning capability against low flying aircraft, the E-2C aircraft mission has evolved for the JASDF over time to include long-range sea and air surveillance.

Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems E-2/C-2 programmes vice president Bart LaGrone said the JASDF is approaching 115,000 accident-free flight hours.

"The demand for E-2 Hawkeye airborne early warning and control is even greater now than when the systems were first delivered to JASDF in 1984," LaGrone added.

The E-2 Hawkeye all-weather, carrier-capable tactical airborne early warning aircraft has been designed to provide simultaneous 360-degree surface and air surveillance, at maximum range.

"Northrop Grumman will continue to provide E-2C support to JASDF and other E-2C operators as the U.S. Navy begins its transition to the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye in fiscal year 2015," LaGrone continued.

Toshiba and Kawasaki Heavy Industries will remain as key industrial partners providing support for the JASDF’s E-2C Hawkeye fleet.
AAR will provide airframe parts and accessories for the E-2C with options to increase that support when required.