MELBOURNE, Fla. – Northrop Grumman completed a key government-led critical design review for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye’s Block II upgrade, clearing the way for integration and testing of the most significant platform upgrade in the program’s history. Northrop Grumman will immediately begin Block II integration and testing and is set to deliver Block II aircraft by the end of the decade.

• Block II represents the most significant upgrade since E-2D’s development, dramatically improving situational awareness and crew efficiency while future-proofing the platform against evolving threats.
• Using a modular open systems approach and commercial off-the-shelf products, Block II reduces costs and supports long-term fleet sustainment and modernization.
• Northrop Grumman will integrate the Block II upgrade into the E-2D’s active production line for new aircraft and retrofit existing fleet aircraft, increasing upgrade capacity.

Expert:

Janice Zilch, vice president and program manager, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, Northrop Grumman: “Completing the Block II critical design review reflects the dedication and expertise of our team and partners. This upgrade strengthens the E-2D’s suite of capabilities, enhancing situational awareness, reducing crew workload and paving the way for future technology. We are continuing to deliver unmatched capability at speed to the U.S. Navy and our international partners.”

Details on Program:

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye is an airborne early warning command and control platform that is purpose-built for the airborne early warning and battle management mission. The E-2D program supports over 4,000 jobs at 411 companies across 40 U.S. states, significantly contributing to the resilience of the U.S. defense industrial base and American manufacturing.

E-2D is continuously modernized to stay ahead of threats, ensuring the joint force can see and sense when it matters most. The Block II Upgrade is comprised of a comprehensive overhaul of mission system software and hardware that will sustain its relevance well into the future. 

From Northrop Grumman, Aug. 18, 2026