pma-231 kneeboard volume 8, issue 1

8/10/2019 PMA-231 Kneeboard Volume 8, Issue 1

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On Jan. 19, 1964, the U.S. Navydelivered the rst E-2 Hawkeye aircraftto Carrier Airborne Early WarningSquadron (VAW) 11, becoming theNavys primary speci cally designedall-weather, carrier-based airborneearly warning, command and controlaircraft. This year PMA-231 celebratedthe 50th anniversary of the deliveryand designated 2014 as the Year ofthe Hawkeye. Throughout the year,PMA-231 highlighted the E-2 Hawkeye

through special events, videos, photosand articles, culminating in the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye achieving InitialOperational Capability (IOC) on Oct. 10.

IOC signi es that the rst operationalsquadron, VAW-125, is manned,trained, equipped and ready to startdeployment preparation with E-2Daircraft.

Its an exciting time for the E-2community! Capt. John Lemmon,PMA-231 program manager, said.

The E-2 Hawkeye has servedas the eyes of the eet

for the last 50 years.

The E-2D Acontinue this variant of the Eits upgraded computer, and the incorpcockpit and tdisplay.

The E-2D joinHawkeye 200and control c

multiple missiostrike warfaresearch and resas a digital scans the envboard sensordata with its taIt distributes command centhrough its onsubsystems. Thcapability to paand disaster re

The E-2D Advto deploy wisquadron, VAyear 2015. Fothe Year of tan anniversarhttp://www.nav

Eyes of theFleet for

50 Years:PMA-231

Celebratesthe Year of

the HawkeyeStory by: Elizabeth Fahrner

In this issue:Vol. 8Issue 1

Celebrating the Year of the HawkeyeE-2D Multiyear Procurement Cont ract AwardedNavy Finishes C-2 Propeller Installation

NAVAIR Public Release SPR-2014-918Distribution: Statement A - Approved forpublic release; distribution is unlimited.

Plus:

The Captains LinkMeet the Crew Around the Fleet

(U.S. Navy photo by Erik Hildebrandt /Released)
http://www.navair.navy.mil/Hawkeyehttp://www.navair.navy.mil/Hawkeye


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page The Captain

s LinkE-2D, PMA-231 is researching how to better equipoperational and test squadrons with availablespare parts. We are coordinating with NavalSupply Systems Command (NAVSUP), DefenseLogistics Agency and other organizations tosolidify contracts addressing supply support. Theprogram of ce is also working with the squadronsand Fleet Readiness Centers to increase E-2 and

C-2 aircraft availability by reducing downtime formaintenance.

Additionally, we are continuously improving thereliability of components, especially the APS-145radar. Within the last couple of years, PMA-231 hasredesigned and updated six weapons replaceableassemblies (WRA) in this radar, improving theexpected reliability of some WRAs by 1000percent or more. Efforts like this demonstrate thatour actions are in line with the words we expressabout our goal to sustain mission relevance forour aircraft. By always looking for ways to improvereliability, we decrease cost per ight hour andprovide eet maintainers and operators more timeto focus on other responsibilities to make theirsquadron more ef cient and effective. The eet isour No. 1 priority and we are always looking todevelop rapid and innovative solutions to meet itsneeds. Effective communication is a key ingredient tosupporting the eetwe want eet feedback on alltype model series in our inventory. As a programof ce, we have several touch points with the eet.

E-2 and C-2 squadrons can document hardwareand publication de ciencies through the JointDe ciency Reporting System (JDRS). Recently,

the program adapted this tooto report software issues as ware used to support funding rethat are hurting the eets heaheld a Program Sustainment Rprogram of ce and eet discusssuccess stories regarding supplyequipment, funding and other

and JDRS allow Greyhound amembers to share information ain a uni ed manner.

Going forward, we will cmilestones as a team! We our experiences and accomcontinue to communicate waythe E-2D achieving IOC and committed to ensuring the eeand sustainable aircraft, the hbrightly. Im proud to be a memthat enables the Navys eyeworkhorse to provide dominairborne network-centric, interand control to the carrier stryou for your continued dedicamission! I look forward to excwith you while staying focuseimpact our capabilities have on

Be passionate! Be committed!

CAPT John Chet Lemmon

It has been a fast-paced and productive year,and I want to begin by thanking you for yourtireless efforts. I cant overstate my gratitudefor this teams determination, passion andcommitment. The E-2/C-2 community iscomprised of people who are actively engagedand truly care about our mission to support Airborne Early Warning (VAW) and Carrier-based Logistics (VRC) squadronsthis re ectswell on you as individuals and on all of us as anorganization.

TheKneeboard is an avenue for communicationwithin the E-2/C-2 community that enables usto be more closely connected. This biannualnewsletter features articles on program

milestones, new aircraft initiatives, eethappenings and insight from leadership.With more than 700 people around the U.S.


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The E-2/C-2 program of ceawarded a $3.643 billionmultiyear contract to NorthropGrumman Corporation for theprocurement of 25 E-2D AdvancedHawkeye aircraft on June 30,2014. This ve-year contract is forthe purchase of full rate production(FRP) E-2D aircraft, Lots 2 through6, during scal year 2014 through

scal year 2018. By entering intoa multiyear procurement (MYP)contract instead of multiple single-year contracts, the Navy savedapproximately $369 million.

The multiyear contract awardincreases the affordability ofthe E-2D Advanced Hawkeye,achieving the best price withtaxpayer dollars, said Capt.

John Lemmon, PMA-231 programmanager. PMA-231 is committedto providing the war ghter with thisinteroperable weapon system; theprogram of ces uni ed missionfocus and expertise will enablethe E-2D aircraft to meet initialoperational capability at the startof next scal year.

Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology andLogistics, Frank Kendall, gavePMA-231 approval May 15 in an

Acquisition Defense Memorandumto proceed with a MYP contractaward for 25 FRP E-2D Advanced

Hawkeye aircraft. Kendall alsodesignated the E-2D AdvancedHawkeye an Acquisition Category(ACAT) IC program and delegatedMilestone Decision Authority to theNavy, giving the Navy the programoversight and authority to approvethe purchase of aircraft under theprogram of record, which includesFRP Lots 2 through 11. This success is a re ectionof PMA-231s continuallyimpressive teamwork, competenceand transparency, and yet anotherreason I am so proud to be partof this team, said Lemmon. Theteams efforts instilledcon dence in Navyleadership that

PMA-231 Awards E-2D

AdvancedHawkeye

MultiyearProcurement

ContractStory by: Elizabeth Fahrner

page this long-teinvestment fcontinue to b

The MYP culminationmilestones years of plananalyses anprogram offor the MY

the Under approved thlow-rate initdecision, thto apply and contrasuccessfully

The MYPcontinue to group with the E-2 and of dollars, sand women this and itswork the eethat will cothe carrier ssee and relay

(U.S. Navy photo by ErikHildebrandt /Released)


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page

Last year, Fleet Logistics SupportSquadron Four Zero (VRC-40), oneof the Navys two operational C-2AGreyhound squadrons, transportedmore than 1.5 million pounds of cargoand mail, and almost 9,700 passengers.It also completed an important upgradeto its propulsion system this March,enabling it to continue as the workhorseof the eet.

The C-2A Greyhound is equipped withthe New Propeller 2000 (NP2000)

eight-bladed system an upgrade thatmakes the Carrier Onboard Deliveryaircraft more reliable and cost-ef cient.PMA-231 oversaw the installation of

the NP2000 on the last of its 35 C-2AGreyhound aircraft in March. This featfollowed the installation of the systemon 68 E-2C Hawkeye aircraft from 2004to 2009. After 10 years, the entire C-2and E-2 eet is now tted with these newpropellers.

The NP2000, a digitally-controlledpropeller system built by HamiltonSundstrand (HS), replaces the hydro-mechanically controlled, four-bladedpropellers previously installed on all

Greyhound aircraft. The NP2000 enablesthe C-2 aircraft to more ef cientlyprovide critical logistics support to carrierstrike groups.

Propelled to Power:Navy completes new propellerinstallation on GreyhoundStory by: Elizabeth Fahrner

Link in the Logistics Chain

The C-2 is the link in the logistics chain thatconnects an aircraft carrier to most everythingit needs while far from shore, but it is alsomore than that. Its at times the only way toget a Sailor with a major injury or a criticalfamily emergency off of the ship quickly. Itsalso in part an ambassador for the carrier airwing and the Navy as it picks up distinguishedvisitors from around the globe, said Lt. Cmdr.Matt Blazel, PMA-231 Propulsion and PowerIPT lead and C-2 pilot.

This link in the logistics chain threatened tobreak when the aircrafts propeller systemfaced obsolescence. The HS Model 54460,the legacy four-bladed propeller system on theC-2, went out of production in 1994. Withoutnew propellers in continued production, the

eet did not have enough spare parts forfuture repairs. Propulsion and Power IPTsystems engineer and former NP2000 IPT

Lead Ed Faillace said thof propellers, combineobsolescence concerns prompted the C-2 prope Once Hamilton Sproducing the HS Moconcerned that our suprun out. Also, the old syaircrafts top degraderreliability issues and said Faillace.

We decided to replacpurely mechanical systedated back to World Wcomposite blade materiacontrol system.

Spinning into Actio

The NP2000 IPT oversaof the system on the C-

(Cont. on next pa(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Conor Minto/Released)


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page established by PMA-231 as a part of thePropulsion and Power IPT in the late1990s, also managed the integration ofthe NP2000 on the entire E-2C eet from2004 to 2009. NP2000 was utilized as thebaseline propeller system for the E-2D

Advanced Hawkeye, too. The NP2000IPT applied the knowledge it gained fromthe E-2 installations to ensure a smoothintegration on the Greyhound. The rstC-2 test aircraft was modi ed in 2005,and the rst installation was completed in2008. The program was supported by AirTest and Evaluation Squadron Two Zero(VX-20), which tested the system andhelped develop training, and NorthropGrumman, which performed the actualinstallations.

We managed the C-2prop installation from

concept to com pletion.It was a big effort.

We managed the C-2 prop installationfrom concept to completion, said JimRobbins, Propulsion and Power IPTlead and former lead logistician for theNP2000 IPT. To get this brand-new sub-system to the eet, we had to evaluateperformance of the propellers and enginepower plant, analyze handling qualities,integrate components, manage supportand logistics, record supply impactsand thats just part of it. It was a bigeffort!

This hard work resulted in a propellersystem that is more reliable, maintainableand capable, satisfying both aircrew and

eet.

Any pilot you talk to loves it. Theydnever go back, said Robbins.

The Positives of the Propeller

NP2000 provides a substantialimprovement in reliability. The digitallycontrolled system has one-third fewerparts than its predecessor and replacesmechanical systems with electroniccomponents. With this streamlined,electronic design, the new propeller

has an increased ight time betweenfailures compared to the legacy system. Additionally, the new propellers generatea signi cantly lower vibration signature,increasing the reliability of avionicscomponents. Cmdr. Holly Shoger, PMA-231 IPT lead for Modi cations andSustainment, said the reduced vibrationhas also decreased aircrew fatigue.

With the old propeller system, pilotswere under constant stress. Now, the

eet tells us they are less tired andstrained thanks to reduced vibration andnoise, said Shoger.

Previously, you could feel the vibrationsin your feet through the oor, in theseats, and in the aircrafts controls. Theywere constant, and that feeling wore onyou, said Blazel.

The new system is also easier todiagnose, repair and replace. Crewscan now run built-in tests to check thefunctionality of the system and identifyproblems. Previously, maintainers hadto remove the entire propeller systemand send it to a repair facility to replaceor x components. Now, maintainerscan replace individual propeller bladesand parts, reducing maintenance manhours by about 24 percent and costs by60 percent, and ultimately, getting the

C-2 back in service faster.

We eliminated an entire maintenance levelwith the NP2000 and, to minimize cost,pushed as much repair as practical to theon-wing maintainers. Individual components,like propeller blades, can be repaired withoutremoval. Weve also decreased the storagefootprint on the carrier during deploymentbecause the modular design of NP2000eliminates the need to stock built-up props,said Faillace.

The NP2000 enhances the ying performanceof the Greyhound, too. C-2s can leave therunway in shorter distances with the newpropeller system. According to test results,the aircrafts eld takeoff performance wasimproved by up to 11 percent for normaltakeoffs and 17 percent for short eld takeoffs.Once the C-2 is airborne, the NP2000 booststhe planes ability to gain altitude, improvingits dual-engine time to climb by 21 percent.

This may decrease the amby the C-2.

Potential fuel savings,decreased downtime

eet all these bene ts. PMA-231 program mE-2/C-2 NP2000 IPT2003, called these benesystem designed, testedresponse to eet needs.

Seeing the nal NP2place on the C-2 givesense of satisfaction anthe team has accomplifor the programs deveproduction, said Lemthe successful deliveryour eet. It reinforces thour acquisition processthat makes a differencCongratulations to the e

Above: PMA-231, Northrop Grumman and eet representatives, including (front, left to right) Sandi GlenNP2000 IPT lead logistician; Capt. Todd Watkins, former commodore; Cmdr. Mike Bratley, commanding John Lemmon, program manager; Ed Faillace, former NP2000 IPT lead; Bill Cover; (back, left to right), ATripple; AD2 Murray; AT3 Rombach; AZ1 Carrion; AMC Joyner; PR2 Evans and Lee Wetzel stand in fronwith the NP2000. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ernest R. Scott


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assessment was to establish a physicallyallocated baseline for the AR system.

A tremendous amount of work by thecollective U.S. Navy and NGC IPT in themonths leading up to the event led to a uni edand comprehensive team presentation tothe Technical Review Board, said ChristySchumacher, AR IPT co-lead.

Ultimately, these technical reviews laid afoundation for the development program thatwill span the next several years and result in theinstallation of AR modi cations on all 75 E-2D

Advanced Hawkeye aircraft. Initial OperationalCapability for AR is planned for scal year 2020.Schumacher explained that this capability willincrease the aircrafts operational availability tosupport sustained Theater Air Missile Defenseand strike coverage for the carrier strike group.

AR will allow longer on-station times at greaterranges to address maturing adversary threats,said Schumacher.

Over the past several years, the E-2D IntegratedTest Team (ITT), including aircrew from theNavys Air Test and Evaluation Squadron TwoZero (VX-20) and NGC, has performed limitedscope test ights to identify potential risks to

AR implementation.

Based on these results, the U.S. Navy plans toimplement several system modi cations to theE-2D to accommodate AR, including refuelingcomponents; new, adjustable seats to addresspilot eld-of-view and crew fatigue; additionalexterior lighting for nighttime formation yingand software improvements to the autopilotsystem.

The AR IPT is working with NGC to provide

inputs for the design and testing of the ARsystem, and preparing for the next systemsengineering technical review, a Critical DesignReview, scheduled for the fourth quarter of

scal year 2015.

Sustaining Command and Control:NAVAIR to Incorporate Aerial Refueling onE-2D Advanced Hawkeye Story by: Elizabeth Fahrner

page

The E-2 Hawkeye has patrolled theskies for 50 years, providing airborneearly warning and command andcontrol to carrier strike groups and groundforces. By scal year 2020, the E-2D

Advanced Hawkeye will carry out this

mission for up to seven continuous hoursper ight due to the addition of an aerialrefueling (AR) capab ility.

The U.S. Navy awarded NorthropGrumman Corporation (NGC) a $226.7million contract for the engineering,manufacturing and development of an ARcapability for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeyeaircraft last September.

Adding an aerial refueling capability toE-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft will allowit to extend its critical mission of providingcontinuous information to the war ghter

who depends on it, said Capt. JohnLemmon, PMA-231 program manager.

Since this contract award, PMA-231s AR Integrated Product Team (IPT) has

continuously worked to move this programcloser to the installation of the system onnew production E-2D aircraft and retro tonto aircraft that are currently operatingin the Navy eet. The AR IPT developedprogram, schedule and performance

measurements and requirements during acombined System Requirements Review2 (SRR2) and System Functional Review(SFR) Feb. 3-4.

The E-2D Aerial Refueling Team did avery good job, and the SRR2/SFR wasvery successful in meeting its objectives.The team seems prepared to proceedto preliminary design, said SRR2/SFRTechnical Review Board Chair ChrisStubbs, Assistant Program ExecutiveOf ce for Tactical Aircraft Programs,Engineering.

Most recently, the PMA-231 AR IPTconducted a Preliminary Design Review Aug. 4-7 in Melbourne, Florida. Thepurpose of this detailed technical

Aerial refueling (AR)demands precision. BuE-2D ITT have condlimited-scope, risk-reduE-2C equipped with a doesnt transfer fuel, valuable tool to assess challenges associated wsystem on the E-2 aircr

learned much about theand changes of this nthese test ights.

AR requires pilots to yand then purposely hitsky, which most pilots tto avoid! said Lt. NProject Of cer. The Eto y, and this task hqualities. Intense concehand are required to ac

So how will E-2 pilotsight when this capab

will y the aircraft wittanker, or the aircraft p

Vantage Point Aerial refueling (ARdemands precisionplenty of practice. E-2D ITT have condlimited-scope, risk-ron an E-2C equippedThe probe doesnt trserved as a valuable

various technical chwith integrating an E-2 aircraft. These much about the anticchanges of this newthese test ights.

AR requires pilotsformation and then pobject in the sky, wtheir whole careers Nathan Atkinson, The E-2 is inherent

this task highlights thIntense concentrationare required to accom

So how will E-2 piloin ight when this cPilots will y the aifeet of the tanker, or tthe fuel, and slow tankers speed. The with a basket attachea drogue. Next, the the plane to direct

above the cockpit inmiddle of the drogueinches around.

( U . S . N

a v y p h o t o

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The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye of ciallybecame ready for tasking with Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron OneTwenty Five (VAW-125) during a ceremony atNaval Station Norfolk Chambers Field March27.

This is a revolutionary jump in capabilities,said former Commodore Capt. Todd Watkins,

Airborne Command Control and LogisticsWing. The E-2D serves as the eyes of the

eet. If its out there, we will see it.

The Tigertails of VAW-125 are the rstNavy squadron to become fully operationalwith the Advanced Hawkeye, the newest,most technologically capable variant ofthe venerable E-2 airborne early warningcommand and control platform.

The E-2D has been in development sincethe early 1990s. During the ceremony,Capt. John Lemmon, program manager,PMA-231, emphasized the Navys longtimecommitment to providing the war ghter withthis aircraft enabled through years of scienceand technology, testing, logistics and training.

People have invested their careers andtalents into the E-2D for more than 20 yearsto provide the Navy with an advanced variantof the Hawkeye that could meet the emergingthreats of tomorrow, said Capt. Lemmon.

From the start, these men and women looked

at the E-2C and envisioned an aircraft thatwas more advanced, more capable, moreready to meet the advancing technologiesthe enemy was developing and employing.Today, we celebrate this major milestone,which is a culmination of their effort.

The E-2D is expected how the Navy will conducommand and control. of the strike, the E-2mission and keep carrieharms way.

We were very excited tto receive the [AdvanLt. James Beaty, a Navhas worked extensivelybeen a challenge, but Ieverything this aircraft

The E-2Ds advanced a multi-mission platformcoordinate concurrent arise during a single can include airborne support, rescue operatireliable communicationsupporting drug interdi

I laid down the challe

platform and defend tWilliam Ewald, ComWing One. Today, the for tasking and I can succeed.

Navys Most Advanced Command an Aircraft Joins the FleetStory by: Mass Communication Specialist 2nd ClassErnest R. Scott and Elizabeth Fahrner

page

Aerial refueling (AR) on the E-2D aircraftdemands precision. But E-2 pilots from theE-2D ITT have conducted numerous ARlimited-scope, risk-reduction test ights on an

Vantage Point (cont. from page 6)Once the probe is securely latchedto the drogue, the tanker will transferfuel as the pilot maintains the aircraftsposition.

Enhancements to the ightcontrol system, including softwareimprovements to the autopilot, areplanned as part of the AR program toassist pilots during this dif cult task.

The primary issue is the aircraftstendency to oscillate in the pitchaxis as the pilot attempts to makevery small vertical corrections asthe probe approaches the drogue,

said Tom Boutin, Northrop GrummanCorporations E-2/C-2 Chief Test Pilot.

The autopilot enhancements willdampen out the oscillations, reducingthe tendency to over-control theaircraft.

Despite the challenge, E-2D ITTmembers clearly see the bene t of thiscapability.

AR gives the crew and commandersoptionsoptions of extended on-station times and many others, saidLt. Atkinson.

Above: Left to right, Lt. Nathan Atkinson, Tom Boutin, Lt. J.P. Debbink, and Lt. Mike Luebkert are members of theE-2D Integrated Test Team who are currently performing aerial refueling testing. The E-2D ITT includes aircrewfrom the Navy, Northrop Grumman Corporation and Wyle. Photo by Elizabeth Fahrner

Above: Ready for Tasking Ceremthe presentation of the colors andPhoto courtesy of Northrop Grum


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J ust as every aircrew member is vital to complete a mission, so eachmember in the E-2/C-2 community plays a role in getting these platformsto the eet, parts and all. And this community is complex and diverse. Itencompasses military, civilian and contractor men and women who providemore than 730* man years of operational, technical, engineering and logisticalsupport around the U.S to three platforms: E-2C, E-2D and C-2A. These jobsrange from scientists to communication specialists and each impact the eetand war ghter. In the words of Capt. Lemmon, PMA-231 program manager, theacquisition of capability is a weapon of war.

This new series will highlight a few teammates in each issue of the Kneeboard and their participation in the E-2/C-2 community, beginning with these members.

Meet the Crew:Exploring Different Jobs in the E-2/C-2 CommunityStory by: Chris Basham and Elizabeth Fahrner; Design by: Debbie Olsen

Mike ReardonE-2/C-2 Airfr ames/Propeller Managerand E-2C Con guration Manager,CNAF

system of spare parts and manpower withthe Type Commander (TYCOM) Supply,Naval Supply Weapons System Support andCommander, Airborne Command ControlLogistics Wing (CACCLW) and PMA-231. Reardon also works with the E-2/C-2Fleet Support Team (FST) and PMA-231to address engineering needs and systemsafety.

I am very fortunate to work with some greatpeople at the CNAF E-2/C-2 Class Desk.We work closely with PMA-231, CACCLWand the E-2/C-2 FST to provide the eet withthe safest and easiest-maintained aircraftpossible, Reardon said.

Reardon schedules preventativemaintenance inspection events and aircrafttransfers, reviews Engineering Change

Proposals and proposed Technical

Directives (TD), and coordination of major modsuch as the recent NPinstallation on all C-2A page 4) .

Reardon said the 10-pluserved in his current positioover 27 years in the U.S

him for his current role.

I joke with people sayinPh.D.sa Public High and a doctorate from theKnocksbecause I nevethe easy way. The best trhas been performing mainaircraft, my time spent aMaster Chief and time in tReardon.

Meet Mike Reardon; hes the E-2/C-2airframes/propeller manager andE-2C con guration manager for theCommander, U.S. Naval Air Forces(CNAF) E-2/C-2 Class Desk, at Norfolk,Va. Reardons job is to make sure allE-2 and C-2 squadrons have the rightnumber of aircraft to meet operationaland training requirements. Soundeasy? Think again.

Reardon ensures that two C-2Asquadrons, nine E-2C squadrons, oneE-2D squadron (Carrier AirborneEarly Warning Squadron OneTwenty Five (VAW-125)), VAW-120and Air Test and Evaluation SquadronOne (VX-1) are safe and ready for action,equipped with necessary parts formaintenance and sparesa logisticalfeat. He coordinates this complex

page

*excludes Foreign Military Sales man years


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page (Meet the Crew cont. from page 8)

Holly Shoger E-2/C-2A Modi cations and SustainmentDeputy Program Manager, PMA-231

C mdr. Holly Shoger is the deputyprogram manager for E-2/C-2AModi cations and Sustainment at PMA-231 on Naval Air Station Patuxent River.Shoger is 16 months into her secondtour with the E-2/C-2 program. Talk toher about her work with the E-2 and C-2,and its easy to see she knows she has apretty cool job. I didnt know what I wanted to dowhen I was growing up, but I did knowthat I wanted to study engineering,said Shoger. The Navy turned out tobe a great option, since it paid for myschooling and gave me an opportunity todo something completely unique! I neverimagined I would be ying and controllingaircraft in the back of an E-2!

Shogers education includes acquisitiontraining for program managementcerti cation, completed through Defense

Acquisition University.

Shoger serves the eet by leading theModi cations and Sustainment IPT, whichprovides weapon system upgrades, in-service engineering and logistics supportfor an active inventory of 15 E-2D

Advanced Hawkeye, 52 E-2C Hawkeyeand 35 C-2A Greyhound aircraft.

We manage the overall sustainmentpiece of all three platforms, whichaffects the everyday operations of the

eet, Shoger said. We installed SCS-7, which is an upgrade to the missionsystems in the E-2C. This modi cationincludes improved capabilities as wellas resolutions to previously de nedde ciencies within the mission system.

Navy opportunities and a passion forengineering brought Shoger to PMA-231, but thats not all she likes abouther role in support of the eet. Shogersays, Working with and meeting somany different people is the best part ofthis job!

Scott Wiener Foreign Military SalesNew Business Manager, PM

A s PMA-231s Foreign Military Sales NewBusiness manager, Scott Wiener hasfound a position that lets him continue tohonor the commitment he made as a naval

ight of cer.

For the past year and a half, Wiener hasworked to identify and develop internationalpartnerships with countries interested inprocuring the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye viathe Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.Navigating fteen-hour ights and multipletime zones may sound demanding, but Wienersays, The most challenging part of my job istrying to understand the values and concernsof our international partners, which can oftenbe lost in translation. Our objective is to buildlong-lasting relationships. It is important toensure that our allies understand what theyare receiving and are ultimately happy withthe product.

Despite some of the challenges, Wiener cansee the bene t his work offers to the eet. Asa greater number of E-2D Advanced Hawkeyeaircraft are sold via the FMS program, the unitcost of the aircraft decreases. This results ina procurement cost savings to the U.S. Navy.

Additionally, the expanded user community

created through internreduces the U.S. Navcosts over the life of the

These cost savings areinto the eet through t

elding of new capabili

Wieners career in FMSactive duty service as aOf cer with the VAWDeployed aboard the U(CVN-74) in the North Aof Operation Enduring with French E-2C forcarrier Charles de Gaairborne command andof combat operations osquadron also took planding of a U.S. Navaircraft carrier.

I was always extremindependent countries was a coalition force to sersaid Wiener. It left a me and drove my desireinvolved in FMS, de

relationships to ensure g


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U.S. Navy Highlights Hawkeye Sustainment in International Forum

F our countries. Three days.One focus: Sustainingdominant airborne earlywarning command and controlthrough global partnership.

The U.S. Navy and four foreignmilitary sales (FMS) customers:France, Taiwan, Japan and Egypt,discussed the sustainment ofthe E-2C Hawkeye aircraft at theInternational Hawkeye ProgramManagement Review (IHPMR)March 24-26 in Washington,D.C. Endorsed by Naval AirSystems Command and PMA-231, Northrop Grummansponsored and hosted the event.

Glenn Stout, PMA-231 FMSprogram manager, said the

event accomplished his teamspurposeit created an avenue foropen communication to addressprolonging the lifespan of the E-2Hawkeye.

This IHPMR was a forum forinternational customers to share

operational experiences, lessonslearned and concerns with the U.S.Navy and each other, said Stout.With the U.S. Navys deploymentof the rst E-2D squadron in scalyear 2015 and sundown of the E-2Caround 2024, we focused on thelong-term sustainment of the E-2Cfor our FMS customers.

FMS customers operate 28 E-2Caircraft, which represents morethan a third of the entire E-2community. The U.S. Navy provides

them with engineering, programmanagement, logistics and nancialanalysis support through the U.S.governments contracts with thesecountries, called Letters of Offer and

Acceptance.

With the U.S. Navys transition

from the E-2C to E-2D, thesecountries have a vested interestin how the U.S. will assist with thesustainment of their E-2C aircraft,said Rick Boisvert, PMA-231 E-2principal deputy assistant programmanager for Logistics, InternationalPrograms.

We reiterated that the Navy andNorthrop Grumman are workingto expand efforts to support theinternational E-2C eet, anddiscussed proactive measures FMScustomers can implement to sustain

their own eets.

PMA-231 is working with E-2suppliers to expand distributorsagreements to include spare partsand components for obsoleteand lifetime buy items. Boisvertencouraged international customersto identify issues affecting currentand future readiness and allocatenecessary resources to maintainaircraft supportability, with essentialsystem upgrades, throughout theservice life of the E-2C aircraft.

Capt. Lemmon, together with BartLaGrone, Northrop Grummans vice

president of E-2/C-2 Programs,spoke to the international audienceabout the importance of forwardthinking and strong partnershipswithin the Hawkeye community tosuccessfully sustain the E-2.

By taking action today and being

proactive tomorrow, we will maintainrelevance and improve readinessbeyond 2024. We must partnertogether to boost the ef ciencyof collective obsolescencemanagement, engineering andlegacy equipment support tooptimize the Hawkeye, saidLemmon.

There is mour relationand from thtogether, thcommunicsharing. Suthe Hawkeand we mu

Above: Capt. Lemmon addresses internationalforeign military sales customers, includingFrance, Taiwan, Japan and Egypt, at theInternational Hawkeye Program ManagementReview. Photo courtesy of NGC

Capt. Lemmon, PMA-231 program manager,and Bart LaGrone, Northrop Grummans vice president of E-2/C-2 Programs, speakabout the importance of forward thinkingand strong partnerships within the Hawkeye

community at the International HawkeyeProgram Management Review March 24-26 inWashington, D.C. Photo courtesy of NGC

Story by: Elizabeth Fahrner; Design by: Debbie Olsen

page


11/13

R andy Snyder, Integrated Product Teamlead for E-2D Advanced Hawkeye NavalIntegrated Fire Control-Counter Air atPMA-231, received the Navy MeritoriousCivilian Service Award in March. Honoringcivilian Department of the Navy employeesfor service or contributions of high value orbene t to the Navy or the Marine Corps, it isthe Navys third-highest civilian award.

Snyder was nominated for enabling thecompletion of three highly successful, end-to-end NIFC-CA demonstration events withthe NC-130H test bed, which matured andtransitioned critical technologies, resulting inE-2D NIFC-CA capability.

Mr. Snyders outstanding leadership, experttechnical and analytical skills, and thoroughknowledge of NIFC-CA have made hima respected team leader, said PMA-231Deputy Program Manager Chris Frayser.

His efforts were signi cant and resulted inthe successful completion of these extremelycomplicated tests.

Providing program strategy, planning,acquisition management, budget, contractexecution and risk management, Snyder ledhis team to develop hardware, software andtactical data links required to integrate NIFC-CA capability into the E-2D. Snyders effortsdelivered E-2D NIFC-CA From the Seacapability on cost, on performance and onschedule, and demonstrated the From the Aircapability ahead of schedule, providing costsavings and risk reduction across the family

of systems.Snyder facilitated E-2Ds successful MilestoneC and Full Rate Production decisions, while

developing and maintarelationships with mNAVSEA program ofChief of Naval OperatSpecial Programs braand Air Warfare CenterResearch, contractors an

His team imple

enhancements to thradar system and datacommunicate with theweapon systems. Underthe demonstration eventest bed, the team spentand coordinating the 120 precursor ights, detachments to West Coalso assisted in collectidata from these eventindependent analysis.

During his 23 years wprofessional excellence

before. He received the E Award for Outstanding Aand the NAVAIR ComE-2D Program Manage

E-2D Team Lead ReceivesNavy Meritorious Civilian Service AwStory by: Chris Basham

page

C mdr. Drew Ballingerwas selectedfor Aviation TestCommand at this years

Aviation CommandScreen Board. Drew willbe the next chief test pilotof Air Test and Evaluation

Squadron (VX) 30 at Naval Base VenturaCounty, Point Mugu, Calif. PMA-231Program Manager Capt. John Lemmoncalled Ballingers selection, verywell deserved.

Ballinger was one of three selected bythe board. To be eligible for selection,each was required to graduate from theU.S. Naval Test Pilot School, achieveDAWIA (Defense Acquisition WorkforceImprovement Act) Level II certi cation inTest and Evaluation and be a member ofthe Acquisition Corps.

Ballinger, who was named HawkeyePilot of the Year for 2004 and VX-20Test Pilot of the Year for 2007, hasaccumulated more than 2,500 ighthours in 23 aircraft, with over 300 carrier- arrested landings.

I have thoroughly enjoyed myexperiences on several operationaldeployments, learning new skills in TestPilot School, being a team member onan extremely challenging and rewarding

ight test program and working closelywith contractor, military and civilian

members of the PMA-231, NAVAIR,and Northrop Grumman program team,Ballinger said.

As a previous Unrestricted Line Of cer(URL) until he became an AerospaceEngineering Duty Of cer in 2012,Ballingers career is a testimony tothe opportunities in acquisition withthe Navy.

I had the opportunity to work in bothelds, as a URL in the operational world

and also in the ight test and acquisitionworld, and I made a decision to switchto AEDO because I enjoyed the moretechnical aspects of aviation andsystems development, said Ballinger.

He will assume his duties as chief testpilot and, eventually, commandingof cer of the VX-30 Bloodhounds inFebruary 2015. VX-30 is one of the mostdiverse squadrons in the Navy today,as its ight line encompasses threedifferent naval aviation platforms. Eachof these platforms is used in Research,Development, Test and Evaluation(RDT&E) of current and future weaponssystems, which are being tested at Naval

Air Warfare Center, Weapons Divisionat Point Mugu and Naval Air WeaponsStation China Lake, California.

Cmdr. Drew Ballinger Selected for Aviation Test CommandStory by: Chris Basham

Above: Cmdr. Drew Ballinger (left) takes the oath asCapt. Lemmon promotes him to his new rank. Ballingerwas selected for Aviation Test Command.Photo by Trudy Carroll

Above: Deputy Program ManagRandy Snyder with the Navy MePhoto by Elizabeth Fahrner

Cmdr. Drew Ballinger


12/13

our industry partners that build these amazingying machines are valued members of

the team.

Naval aviation is th eultimate team sport and

our industry partners thatbuild these amazing fying

machines are valuedmembers of the team.

Watkins spoke about the squadronsinterface with the aircraft, while Lemmonprovided an overview of the acquisition andprogram management of the E-2D AdvancedHawkeye. Glenn Stout, PMA-231 FMSprogram manager, talked about the possibleprocurement of the aircraft by other countries.

Suppliers saw different sides of the coin,Lemmon said. They learned about the dailyeffort of running and managing an ACAT 1Cprogram and gained insight into the operatorsperspective of the E-2 and C-2.

Lemmon also used the event as an opportunity

to encourage continuinnovation between ind

Together, we must addas transaction time in thcon guration managemmust keep the end userour minds, Lemmon sa

Lemmon and Bart Grummans vice prPrograms, gave a summof the E-2 and focused the E-2D Advanced HaSpace Exposition, an professional and maritthe U.S. defense indusector U.S. companiesalso highlighted recenoperational achievemen

Events such as Sea-Aunique opportunity for PGrumman to update well as other Navy eprogram, both domestisaid LaGrone. Just a

on a daily basis, ensuris performing at the hitogether demonstrates that has been built on moof delivering on our war ghters.

page Forward. Mobile. Ready.E-2 community engages audiencesat Navy and industry events

PMA-231, Airborne CommandControl and Logistics Wing, andNorthrop Grumman presented a

uni ed front at E-2D Industry Day March25 and Sea-Air-Space Exposition April 7.Both events allowed audiences to learnmore about the latest variant of the E-2and how these three entities are workingtogether to eld this new aircraft.

At Industry Day, Capt. John Lemmon,PMA-231 program manager, and Capt.Todd Watkins, former commodore for

the Airborne Command Control andLogistics Wing, stressed the importanceof the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye tothe carrier strike groups and thankedsuppliers for their contributions to thisaircraft.

Suppliers need to hear rst-hand fromoperators how pleased we are with theproduct they provide and how much we,the eet, value the contributions of ourcivilian partners, Watkins said. Navalaviation is the ultimate team sport and

Story by: Elizabeth Fahrner

Above: Left to right, Cmdr. James JJ Elias, John Capacchione (industry partner), Capt. Watkins andCapt. Lemmon attend Industry Day. Elias, Watkins and Lemmon (above right) were speakers at the event.Photos courtesy of NGC

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist2nd Class Devin Wray/Released)

RECENT ACTIVITYA d h Fl


13/13

E-2/C-2 Airborne Tactical Data System Program Of ce, PMA-231Elizabeth Fahrner, Managing Editor Chris Basham, Editor [email protected] [email protected] 301-866-4098, ext. 2204

RECENT ACTIVITY

Local Command Directory (click i

Navy News Service and Social M

NAVAIRSYSCOthe United Staterepresents everyas about ve forclass? Watch to

THIS NEWSLETTER IS PUBLISHED BI-ANNUALY BY NAVAIR PMA-231. Its content is not necessarily the of cial view of or endthe U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the Department of the Navy. Questions regarding this publication, its distributionhow to obtain back issues may be made by contacting the program dir ectly. All members of the E-2/C -2 team, including eet units and activities, are encouraged to submit articles elec tronically or by mail (E-2/C-2 Program Of ce, 47123 Buse Road, Patux ent River, MD 2067[

Photo of the daat NAS Norfolk

Throwback Thu(originally desigover Long IslanDec. 30, 1960.

Photo of the dathis month, the entered Navy sethe Paci c and A

page

U.S. Navy @UHere's a glimpseevery day arounclock http://1.us

Check out these pictures from U.S. Navy E-2 and C-2 squadrons stationed aroundthe globe. Visit http://www.navy.mil/viewGallery.asp to view more photos fromthe feet.

Around the Fleet

Right: VX-1 ies an E-2D Advanced Hawkeyeover Naval Air StationPatuxent River. (U.S.Navy photo by ErikHildebrandt/Released)

Left: A C-2A Greyhoundassigned to theRawhides of FleetLogistics SupportSquadron (VRC) 40

takes off from the ightdeck of the aircraftcarrier USS TheodoreRoosevelt (CVN 71).(U.S. Navy photo byMass CommunicationSpecialist Seaman

Apprentice MatthewYoung/Released)

Left: An E-2C Hawkeyeaircraft from VAW-123is secured by crewmembers Lt. j.g. EmilyWeaver and Lt. Matt

Axley after arriving atForrest Sherman Fieldat Naval Air StationPensacola. The aircrafthas been donated to theNational Naval AviationMuseum at the base.(U.S. Navy photo by Mike

OConnor/Released)

Left: Two VAW-120 andone VAW-123 E-2CHawkeye aicraft cruisepast the First FlightMemorial at Kitty Hawk,

North Carolina. (Photoby Ted Carlson)

Right: A C-2A Greyhoundfrom the Providers ofVRC-30, Detachment5, makes an arrestedlanding on the ightdeck of the U.S. Navysforward-deployed aircraftcarrier USS GeorgeWashington (CVN 73).

(U.S. Navy photo byMass CommunicationSpecialist Seaman

Apprentice Oscar AlbertMoreno Jr./Released)

Left: An E-2D Hawkeyeassigned to the TigerTails of VAW-125 iesover Naval StationNorfolk. VAW-125provides airborneearly warning andcommand and controlto Carrier Air Wing 1.(U.S. Navy photo byMass CommunicationSpecialist 2nd ClassErnest R. Scott/

Released)
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