With notable improvements and new features, the E-2D
is a major advancement from the E-2C Hawkeye.
"The E-2D brings a significant number of improvements to the
older E-2C," said Cmdr. Paul Lanzilotta, commanding officer of
VAW-125. "The biggest thing is the sensor and radar systems.
They are much more advanced in the E-2D. The E-2D is capable of seeing
much farther and it is far more capable of detecting targets on the
surface and in the air. This helps ensure the carrier strike group
is adequately defended, even hundreds of miles away. We can see it
all."
Other improvements include a fully integrated-all-glass-tactical
cockpit, advanced identification friend-or-foe system, a new radar
with both mechanical and electronic scanning capabilities, electronic
support measures enhancements, new mission computers and tactical
workstations.
"Along with the many technological advances, the E-2D is also
a much smoother flying aircraft now," said Lanzilotta. "These
aircraft are brand new. They still have that have that 'new car smell'."
After hundreds of practice landings on shore, the launch and recovery
of the E-2D onboard Theodore Roosevelt begins VAW-125's final transition
process from the E-2C to the E-2D.
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Katie Lash, USS Theodore
Roosevelt Public Affairs
