The United States has given the go-ahead for a potential Foreign Military Sale of E-2C Hawkeye sustainment items and services to France.
The estimated cost of the sale amounts to $160m. Northrop Grumman is identified as the principal US contractor for the project.
The requested sustainment support from France builds upon a previously implemented case worth $99.6m. With the inclusion of the additional non-MDE (Major Defence Equipment) items and services, the total estimated cost of the sale has now reached $160m.
According to GlobalData’s “France Defence Market 2023-2028” report, France has long maintained deep political and military ties with successive US administrations.
The sustainment package encompasses an Engine Component Improvement Program, software updates, technical publications, US Government and contractor technical/product support, assistance, and other logistics and program support elements necessary for maintaining the operational readiness of the E-2C Hawkeye fleet.
The sale will enable France to effectively counter existing and emerging threats within the European domain, ensuring interoperability with US and NATO forces.
In 2013, France equipped the E-2C Hawkeye aircraft with Northrop’s IFF system, an upgraded identification friend or foe (IFF) system to enhance commonality and interoperability with the US Navy’s E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft.
Implementation of the sale will involve occasional visits by US government personnel to France for program oversight and support requirements. Additionally, one contractor personnel will be permanently assigned to France to provide technical oversight, training, and maintenance support.
