War Machines of Staggering Costs: Unveiling the Priciest Military Vehicles Ever Built

5. Northrop Grumman Advanced Hawkeye Model E-2D

Joined the Service: 1960 Producing Company: Northrop Grumman

Price: *$232 million

Description:

The E-2 Hawkeye is an all-weather tactical Airborne Early Warning (AEW) aircraft designed with carrier capabilities. Developed in the late 1950s, it was first acquired by the U.S. Navy, succeeding the now-retired E-1 Tracer. The E-2 Hawkeye plays a crucial role in surveillance and command and control, enhancing situational awareness for naval operations.

Conclusion The E-2 Hawkeye exemplifies advancements in airborne radar technology and tactical operations. Its continued service underscores the importance of early warning systems in modern military strategy, ensuring effective maritime defense and operational readiness!

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Shutterstock / Northrop Grumman E-2D Advanced Hawkeye ©viper-zero The Northrop Grumman Corp. aircraft has benefited from a number of much-needed upgrades throughout time, including the addition of E-2B and E-2C technology, which has improved radio communications and radar performance. The first flight of the E-2D Hawkeye took place in 2007. The sound of the turboprop engines has earned it the moniker "Hummer." The E-2 is used by the US and seven other nations. Fighter-sized stealth planes are detectable by the E-2 Advanced Hawkeye's APY-9 radar. It is said that the APY-9 can take aim at fifth-generation fighters like as the Sukhoi Su-57, Chengdu J-20, and Shenyang J-31. The APY-9 was created by Lockheed and Northrop Grumman to address the issues with earlier UHF radar systems.