The radar picket version of the Grumman Tracker was the E-1B Tracer, seen here with the replacement E-2A. Whereas the APS-82 antenna in the Tracer rotated within a fixed dorsal radome, the complete disc with the APS-96 on the Hawkeye turned through 360°.

The US Navy is the largest and oldest user of the Hawkeye with more than 80 in service with 11 air wings.

Hawkeyes have assisted in operations in Vietnam, the Gulf War and during the present conflict in the Balkans. This E-2C is in the markings of VAW-112.

Meanwhile, the newest operator of the type is the French Aeronavale, which is currently training crews on the aircraft prior to assignment aboard the Charles de Gaulle.

Apart from the USN, six countries have purchased Hawkeyes. Thirteen E-2Cs in the Japanese Air Self-Defence Force are Group Os with APS-138 radar

Apart from the USN, six countries have purchased Hawkeyes. Singapore has four, equipping No 111 Sqn

Apart from the USN, six countries have purchased Hawkeyes. France has just received two, with two more planned

Prototype E-2A undergoing carrier trials late in 1962, during which it became the first aircraft to be launched using a nose-tow system.

Post-Vietnam, an E-2B of VA-116 launches from USS Constellation (CVA-64) during a 1974 CENTO exercise. This variant incorporated a new Litton digital computer, and 49 E-2As received the upgrade.

Apart from the USN, six countries have purchased Hawkeyes. Egypt operates six.
The first of five Grumman E-2C Hawkeye AEW aircraft was officially accepted by the Egyptian Air Force on 3 October 1985 at Bethpage, NY, under a $700m-plus contract which includes training, support equipment, spares and contractor services.

One of the three systems operators at a main display unit in an E-2C.

Meanwhile, the newest operator of the type is the French Aeronavale, which is currently training crews on the aircraft prior to assignment aboard the Charles de Gaulle.

E-2C Group 1 and 2 upgrades, with further improvements slated for the Hawkeye 2000.