Grumman E-2C Hawkeye – VAW-124 Bear Aces, Miss B. Havin, US Navy, Op. Desert Storm 1991

Hobby Master 1/72 scale HA4820: Grumman E-2C Hawkeye AJ601 of VAW-124 Bear Aces, Miss B. Havin, US Navy, USS Theodore Roosevelt, Operation Desert Storm 1991. Production run of 500 models.

Length 9.75 inches Wingspan 13.5 inches

VAW-124 “Bear Aces” is a carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron that in 1990-1991 was equipped with the Northrop E2C Hawkeye. During the USS Theodore Roosevelt’s 6 months deployment they took part in “Operation Desert Shield”, “Operation Desert Storm” and “Operation Provide Comfort”. VAW-124 was assigned to provide all-weather airborne early warning as well as command and control and SAR coordination. E-2C Hawkeye “Miss B.Havin” 161552, c/n A-85 flew until March 1999 when it was stricken from service.

Designed as a replacement for the E-1 Tracer, the Grumman E-2 Hawkeye was first flown in 1960. This all-weather tactical Airborne Early Warning aircraft is the only aircraft-carrier capable aircraft to carry a large rotating dome, which houses the antennas for its long-range radars. Used primarily by the US Navy, the E-2 provides surveillance and airborne early warning of anti-ship and enemy aircraft attacks. Sometimes called “The Hummer” because of its distinctive engine sounds, the E-2 is one of only two propeller airplanes that currently operate from aircraft carriers. The E-2 is still undergoing upgrades, with the modern E-2D taking its first flight in August 2007.