bfng3569

not to highjack the other awacs thread so i'll ask here, but i was wondering, is there any planned replacement for them in the works that would take advantage of all the more recent technological updates in radar systems, antennas, networking abilities, and so on?

i thought i read a blurb somewhere that the capabilities of the F-22's radar would rival that of a current awacs??? (not in range though, but ability)

where does the current awacs stand and whats planned for it?

B.Smitty

The E-10 MC2A was originally to be the E-3 Sentry's replacement, but it's focus has shifted to replacing JSTARS.

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye will have the new APY-9 AESA radar.

The F-22's radar is definitely impressive but it's just not in the same class as an AWACS-sized radar in terms of size, power, or signal processing capability.

The Aussie Wedgetail is an example of a smaller AWACS platform with a modern radar system.

bfng3569

understood, thats why i was wondering if they were going to be working on a replacement (and yes, i know, no funds anway between tanker, F-22, and transport)

i ujst dont know much about AWACS when it comes to upgrades and current abilities in comparison to what it could be?

Tin Man

....Cue Jimmy..

__________________
"Liberty is a thing beyond all price.

Jimmy

Well thank you, thank you.

There is a block upgrade (40/45) in the works. From what I understand, its basically done...there are some tweaks to be made still, and the actual layout of the interior isnt sorted out yet, but the hardware is basically selected and tested to ensure all the different parts talk to each other well enough. Basically, it'll replace the decades old computer system, use all new scopes, new radios, etc. Same radar though. The AN/APY-1 and 2 are plenty good enough. Funding is (supposedly) locked in so the upgrades should start hitting the streets in the next few years.

There is no replacement planned, since the (appropriate) death of the E-10 program. The E-10 wasnt just an AWACS replacement, it was also to be the JSTARS on the same platform...not a good idea in my opinion.

The E-3 is still the best AWACS/AEW platform on the planet, though. The Wedgetail is awesome at what it does, but its mission is narrower so its more specialized.

bfng3569

thanks for the info!

BBBilly

NATO is planning to operate their E-3A untill 2035 at least....

Jimmy

And someday I hope to be stationed there...

BBBilly

Maybe we'll meet.......

Jimmy

I'm down to meet anybody from the boards if we manage to end up in the same place at the same time. So far I've run into one...