
For more information about the Boeing E-7 AEW&C platform check out this E-7 capabilities video
The Boeing E-7 Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) is a combat-proven weapon system that provides powerful multi-domain surveillance, communications, and networked battle management capabilities, as well as interoperability that multiplies the effectiveness of joint and coalition forces. The Boeing E-7 AEW&C, has proven itself around the world, it can see farther, communicate more effectively, and make faster and more informed decisions to achieve mission objectives.
Click on the hotspots to explore the advanced capabilities of the E-7 AEW&C
Air-to-air refueling capability allows for extended on-station time, range, and mission support.
The 360-degree sensor coverage provided by the Northrop Grumman Multi-role Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) radar is fully compliant with international standards.
The multiservice, interoperable, FAA-certified communications system is capable of supporting multiple security classifications of voice and data transfer.
A single interface between multiple subsystems and the operator provides mission processing and display for the airborne mission segment.
Detection and geolocation of emitters within the required frequency range allow surveillance, target identification, and threat warning.
A critical enabler to surveillance and air dominance, the E-7 AEW&C offers the most advanced, state-of-the-art airborne moving target indicator capability (AMTI) available today.
Based on a Boeing Next-Generation 737, the E-7 AEW&C’s radar provides a full 360-degree surveillance capability with sector emphasis and other techniques to dynamically adjust to emerging tactical situations. Sector emphasis extends detection range without the need to fly closer to threat situations.
Fully interoperable, the E-7 AEW&C brings battle management to the tactical edge of the battle space. The mission processing capability provides real-time analytics for targeting and processes critical data throughout all phases of threat engagement with little or no latency. Programmable chaff and flares operate as a defensive countermeasure against threats, increasing the aircraft’s survivability.
Operating successfully around the globe for more than a decade, the E-7 AEW&C is a mature and combat-proven platform, in production and available when called upon. On average, current AEW&C operators experience higher operational availability rates that allow it to spend more time in the skies. Compared to the E-3 AWACS, overall operating costs are estimated to be 66% less, and because the E-7 AEW&C has more operational capability, less jets and manpower are needed to deliver the increased capability.
The future battlespace will be more complex, dynamic and unconventional. To be able to defeat advanced threats and accomplish missions, the E-7 AEW&C’s Open Mission Systems (OMS) architecture capability is key. In 2020 ground and flight tests, Boeing married the OMS-compliant battle management command and control (BMC2) system to Northrop Grumman’s advanced, wide-band active electronically scanned array (AESA). Customers will have more flexibility to add or upgrade capabilities, select third-party vendors and determine implementation schedules.
Airframe | 737-700 increased gross weight (IGW) airframe |
Radar | Northrop Grumman “MESA” electronically scanned array radar system with 360 degrees/Air and Maritime modes/200 + nmi range/All Weather |
IFF | 300 nmi |
System Architecture | Open |
Consoles | Open |
Operational ceiling | 41,000 ft |
Range | 3,500 nmi |
Flight Crew | 2 |
Mission Crew | 6 to 10 |
The global E-7 fleet includes 14 operational aircraft that have a maximum unfueled flight time of about 9 hours and a range of 3,000 nautical miles.
The Republic of Korea Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Turkish Air Force, and soon the Royal Air Force, utilize the E-7 and its proven next generation airborne surveillance, communication and battle management capabilities.
Boeing E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) Historical Snapshot
Throughout its history, the E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) fleet has undergone extensive enhancements, including upgrades to radar, computing, satellite communications and air traffic management.
The first E-3 entered U.S Air Force service in 1977, preceded by more than 10 years of competitive fly-offs, prototype design and development. Thirty-four U.S. AWACS aircraft were delivered to the Air Force, the last in 1984.