When we talk about aircraft carriers, large vessels that have the capacity to transport many aircraft soon come to mind. Fighter aviation be it the F-18 Hornet, Super Hornet or the EA-18 Growler comes to mind when it comes to the US Navy.
But in addition to fighters that play a large role within naval air aviation, there are also larger aircraft that play a strategic role within a naval air force. Of these, three aircraft in particular marked and still mark their importance within the navy and arouse the interest and curiosity of many.
But what are the US Navy's main tactical/logistical operations aircraft?
V-22 Osprey
This aircraft used by the Marines (Naval Marines) has the ability to land and take off vertically, which greatly facilitates the work of embarked operations. The Ospreys were introduced to the marines in 2007. However, their design dates back to the 80s, with the first flight taking place in 1989.
The aircraft is a partnership project between the renowned helicopter manufacturer Bell and the large manufacturer Boeing. The tiltrotor aircraft, as it is also known, was developed in the 80s, with the first flight taking place in 1989.
The Osprey was used in important conflicts such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya and Kuwait. Its ability to carry troops and cargo is a differential within a conflict scenario.
On the last day 21 a model CMV-22B Osprey (the last variant of the Osprey), made its maiden flight in Amarillo, Texas. Bell together with Boeing should deliver the first CMV-22B to the US naval forces between this year 2020 and 2021. In the US Navy the new tiltrotor planes will replace the old Grumman C-2A.
“With the ability to travel up to 1.150 nautical miles, the CMV-22B will be a lifeline for our servicemen and women at sea”, said Kristin Houston, vice president, Boeing Tiltrotor Programs and director of the Bell Boeing V-22 Program. “The quality and safety built into this aircraft will revolutionize the way the US Navy accomplishes its critical delivery mission aboard the carrier.”
Grumman C-2
This plane is one of the heavyweights of the US Navy. The Grumman C-2 made its first flight in 1964. The aircraft has the function of transporting troops, cargo and supplies for aircraft carriers. The aircraft was designed by Northrop Grumman, the same maker of the legendary F-14 Tomcat.
The C-2 was introduced into the US Navy in 1966, i.e. two years after its first flight, this shows that the US Navy was keen to have an aircraft capable of transporting a considerable volume of troops and cargo but with its operation possible. on an aircraft carrier.
Over the years, the C-2s of both the first A version and the 2 C-2010A (R) version have flown several missions aboard various aircraft carriers of the US fleet.
The C-2s, as mentioned above, will soon be replaced by the new Osprey variants, which will bring greater dynamics and agility to the operations previously employed by the Grumman C-2s.
E-2 Hawkeye
Another aircraft employed in the US Navy is the Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye. The Navy's radar aircraft made its first flight in October 1960 and was introduced into the Naval Air Force in '64.
Since the first flight until today, several versions have been made and with them the necessary updates. The importance of the aircraft for marine life is notorious. On every US aircraft carrier there are about four or more E-2 Hawkeyes.
Over the years the Hawkeye have participated in some real conflicts, including Iraq, Afghanistan, among others.
The E-2 is also operated by other countries such as Egypt, , Japan, Mexico, Singapore, Israel and Taiwan.
The latest version of the E-2 Hawkeye is the D Advanced version. The aircraft is equipped with an in-flight refueling probe, and the new aircraft will also be able to be used in electronic warfare situations, thanks to the new upgrades used in the aircraft.
The US Navy received its first E-2019D Advanced in September 2 and pilot training for the new equipment has already begun. In addition to the US, the JASDF has ordered three units of the new E-2 Hawkeye.
