Northrop Grumman scores $1.2B US Navy deal for three E-2D Hawkeye Block II aircraft

July 24, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The US Navy has awarded Northrop Grumman Systems a contract valued at up to $1.196 billion for the production, delivery and associated support of three E-2D Advanced Hawkeye (AHE) Block II airborne early warning and command and control aircraft.

The undefinitized, cost no-fee contract was awarded to Northrop Grumman’s Aerospace Systems business in Melbourne, Florida, and covers the next phase of E-2D production for the Navy. Work is expected to be completed by December 2031.

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye is the latest variant of the E-2 aircraft family and provides the U.S. Navy with enhanced airborne early warning, surveillance, and battle management capabilities.

The aircraft features an advanced radar system that delivers a two-generation improvement in detection and tracking capability, along with upgraded aircraft systems designed to improve reliability, supportability and operational readiness, according to the US Navy.

Designed as the “eyes of the fleet,” the carrier-based E-2D provides broad-area surveillance and extends the navy’s ability to detect, identify and respond to evolving threats. Its enhanced capabilities in littoral environments and over land allow carrier strike groups and joint forces to maintain situational awareness across complex operating environments.

Beyond traditional airborne early warning missions, the E-2D functions as a multi-mission command and control platform. During a single flight, the aircraft can support a range of operations, including coordinating airborne strikes, supporting land forces, managing rescue operations, maintaining communications networks between dispersed forces, and assisting counter-drug missions.

Under the latest contract, production work will be carried out across multiple locations in the United States and internationally.

Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity for the award. Northrop Grumman serves as the prime contractor for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program.