HOME      Grumman E-2 Hawkeye


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The Grumman E-2 Hawkeye first took to the sky in 1960. The aircraft, virtually unchanged in outward appearance from the original model, continues to be produced today. Flying from its aircraft carriers, it is the primary surveillance aircraft of the U.S. Navy.

The most prominent feature of the Hawkeye is its huge radome that is its primary means of information gathering.  Inside the aircraft are a host of computers and electronics equipment. With these, information can be relayed through orbiting satellites to ships, other aircraft, and shore based stations. The Hawkeye essentially functions as a carrier borne AWACS aircraft.

E-2 Hawkeyes have received numerous upgrades through the years. Except for its antennas, the most noticeable external aircraft upgrades are its eight blade props. Newer engines are more powerful and efficient.

Inside the aircraft is a new all glass cockpit. Computer systems have larger, clearer displays, more memory, more functions, are faster, and more powerful. Radars have been replaced and upgraded as technology has improved. We are told that the latest Hawkeye aircraft are capable of tracking and providing intercept data to an infinite number of aircraft or surface targets within their 400 plus mile radar range.

U.S. Grumman E-2 aircraft have served over Vietnam, Libya, and most recently Iraq. The U.S.C.G. also flew the aircraft.

The U.S. Navy has recently announced plans to order an additional 75 Hawkeye aircraft. They anticipate their continued use through 2050.

The latest Hawkeye model, currently undergoing evaluation, is the E-2D. It has avionics and electronics which enable greater real time threat evaluation, missile defense, and asset coordination for both terrain and maritime use.

Pilots tell us that the new aircraft handles much like its predecessor. Recent test flights checked out power plant management, aircraft handling, avionics, and the all glass cockpit. Next comes engine start-ups, carrier approach landings, plus radar and systems evaluations. Its test pilots really like the new aircraft.

A total of over 300 Grumman E-2 Hawkeye aircraft have been produced to date. Over 100 have been acquired by U.S. allies around the world.


Specifications

    Primary Function:
    Crew:
    Engines:
    Power:
    Weight Empty:
    Max. Weight:
    Ordnance:
    Cannons:
    Length:
    Wingspan:
    Max. Speed:
    Climb Rate:
    Ceiling:
    Range:
    First Flight:
    Year Deployed:
surveillance
five
Allison T-56-A427
2 x 5,100 s.h.p. ea.
37,680 lbs.
55,000 lbs.
none
none
57' 7"
80' 7"
375 mph
2,500 fpm
30,800 feet
1,600 miles
1/23/60
1964



Radio Control Airplane
A rc E-2 Hawkeye built from Tom Hunt plans.


Radio Control Airplanes:




It looks like you will need to contact Tom Hunt through RC Groups for a set of rc E-2 Hawkeye plans if you want an accurate scale model of the aircraft.  The picture right above is of a model built from his plans.

The two pictures right below are of what Wil Hobby thinks a rc E-2 Hawkeye should look like. It looks pretty good in the air, and if you are not too particular about scale looks, and want a ARF, it may be for you.  Wingspan is 74", weight is around 6 1/2 lbs. and power can come from a pair of .25 two stroke or .30 four stroke engines.  It has also been converted to electric power.

The next picture is of the two channel RTF EPP foam rc E-2 Hawkeye from HK Industries.  It was listed under "helicopters" on their website and we could not find any specifications.  We had to laugh at the controls listed as right, left, forward and reverse. At least the model looks somewhat like a real Grumman E-2 Hawkeye.

The bottom picture is of a rc E-2 Hawkye for sale by MacGregor Industries Radio Control Division. The site does not show a wingspan, length, or type of power. The only information given is that it is manufactured by PSP.

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Radio Control Airplane
A sort of rc E-2 Hawkeye from Wil Hobby.


Radio Control Airplane

Wil Hobby rc E-2 Hawkeye looks good flying.


Radio Control Airplane

HK Industries rc E-2 Hawkeye RTF.


Radio Control Airplane

PSP rc E-2 Hawkeye for sale by MacGregor.