Modernization of the cockpit and critical mission systems is included with the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye with DSSC 6. (Photo: Northrop Grumman)
Northrop Grumman will evolve the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye cockpit and computing architecture with Delta System Software Configuration 6 (DSSC 6) as part of a new contract awarded by the U.S. Navy, the company announced this week.
Variants of the E-2 are utilized by air forces around the globe. The platform is used for navigational assistance, communications, and guidance with search and rescue operations. The E-2D in particular provides surveillance for fleet protection in addition to dominant and continuous interoperable command and control.
“Northrop Grumman has a long partnership with the U.S. Navy on the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program to ensure with this fleet modernization that we continue to outpace evolving threats into the 2040s and beyond, with this proven airborne battle management command and control aircraft,” commented Janice Zilch, vice president, multi-domain command and control programs.
Modernization of DSSC 6 will incorporate both Hawkeye Cockpit Technology Refresh and Theater Combat ID, according to Northrop Grumman. Its new open mission systems architecture will allow new capabilities to be integrated rapidly.
The “entire Navy fleet will be retrofitted with updated cockpit, navigation technologies and mission systems, beginning in 2029 and throughout the 2030s,” the company stated.