Northrop Grumman Systems Corp.'s Aeronautics Systems division in Melbourne, Florida, has been awarded a $387m (€352m)contract modification to produce three distinct configuration E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft exclusively designated for the Government of France. 

The contract involves non-recurring engineering efforts, and the project is expected to be completed in December 2027. The project will enhance defence cooperation between the US and France and support advanced airborne surveillance capabilities for the French Armed Forces.

The Government of France recently awarded a $76m contract to Northrup Grumman to provide spares for three unique configuration E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft destined for the government of France.

The assigned work will be executed across various locations, with the majority in Melbourne, Florida, followed by Marlborough, Massachusetts, and Baltimore, Maryland. 

The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, assumes the role of contracting activity for this substantial and crucial endeavour.

With this contract modification, Northrop Grumman continues to showcase its commitment to delivering aerospace solutions to its international partners. The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, a capable and advanced airborne early warning aircraft, is set to enhance the Government of France's defence capabilities, further strengthening the bonds between the two nations. 

Japan also strengthened their naval aviation aircraft capabilities by acquiring the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Aircraft from the US for $3.1bn. The deal was proposed in 2018 and involved the acquisition of nine of the aircraft, providing the country with AEW&C situational awareness of air and naval activity in the Pacific region. 

As work commences across various locations in the United States and abroad, the project's completion in December 2027 will mark another milestone in Northrop Grumman's legacy in the defence industry.