The US Navy and Northrop Grumman have wrapped up the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Delta System Software Configuration (DSSC)-6 Preliminary Design Review (PDR).
This marks a major step in the operationalization of the DSSC-6, which promises significant improvements to the command-and-control aircraft’s flight and mission systems, such as pilot workload management, situational awareness, and cyber defense.
It will also address parts obsolescence and add improved computing and electronic storage, along with creating a modular open systems architecture for future technology integration.
“Successful completion of the E-2D DSSC-6 PDR is an affirmation of the ground-breaking work undertaken by the combined PMA-231 and NGC (Northrop Grumman Corporation) teams,” Program Manager for DSSC-6 Lt.Cmdr. Neil Whitesell said.
“It represents a major programmatic milestone in the acquisition of technology key to maintaining carrier-based airborne command and control dominance well into the next decade.”
Delta System Software Configuration
Northrop was awarded an $845.5 million contract in September 2023 to develop the DSSC-6, with the first test flight scheduled for fiscal 2027 and initial operational capability in 2030.
It is part of the E-2D’s sustenance plan to keep it flying into the 2040s.
The service wants to introduce new improvements to the aircraft through the phased configuration enhancements.
The DSSC 3.1 was rolled out in 2021. It featured the Joint Tactical Radio System and Link 16, enhancing cybersecurity, according to the head of the Airborne Command and Control Systems Program Office at Naval Air Systems Command Capt. Pete Arrobio.
Version 4 was introduced in 2023, enabling improvements in data fusion, GPS, and radar upgrades.
The fifth phase is scheduled to be rolled out in 2025, featuring “upgrades that are vital to the warfighting effectiveness of the carrier strike group in an A2/AD (anti-access/area denial) environment,” according to Arrobio.
The sixth software update will enable “interoperability with the Joint All-Domain Command-and-Control system and the Naval Operational Architecture,” he added.
E-2D Advanced Hawkeye
The E-2D is the latest variant of the E-2 series of carrier-capable airborne early warning and command and control aircraft, featuring upgraded radar sensor capability and network-centricity.
Major tasks include theater air and missile sensing and early warning, battlefield management, command, and control, acquisition, tracking, and targeting of surface warfare contacts, surveillance of littoral area objectives and targets, and tracking of strike warfare assets.
A total of 78 E-2Ds are scheduled to be inducted by 2025 as a replacement for the E-2Cs.
Additionally, five E-2Ds have been approved for delivery to Japan while three will be delivered to France.
