Composite eight-blade propellers added to E-2C Hawkeye

April 23, 2001

Submitted by TEAM Public Affairs, Headquarters

A Navy E-2C Hawkeye equipped with state-of-the-art composite eight-blade propellers successfully completed its first flight April 19.

The NP2000 program is developing the new propellers for the E-2C Hawkeye and C-2A Greyhound. Easier and less expensive to maintain than the current four blade propellers, the NP2000 is a digitally controlled, all-composite propeller blade system that will replace the electro-mechanical, steel spar propellers that are currently on all Hawkeye and Greyhound aircraft.

Phase I of the flight test program will expand the flight envelope and assess and validate flying qualities. Aircraft carrier suitability testing will take place in late summer 2001.

Phase II will involve performance and additional shipboard testing. The NP2000 flight test program should be completed by fall 2002 followed by Fleet Introduction.

Pilot Lt. Cmdr. Glenn Jamison, co-pilot Lt. Cmdr. Mark Light, and the Naval Flight Officer Lt. Tim Spitser flew the NP2000 Hawkeye test aircraft.