ES-3 Shadow
| ES-3 Shadow | ||
|---|---|---|
 ES-3A Shadow | ||
The ES-3 Shadow replaced the EA-3 Skywarrior and entered fleet service in 1993. The ES-3 was a carrier-based, subsonic, all-weather, long-range, electronic reconnaissance aircraft. It operated primarily with carrier battle groups providing Indications and Warning (I&W) support to the battle group and joint theater commanders. It carried an extensive suite of electronic sensors and communications gear. Unfortunately, these modifications greatly restricted speed and range, making it a sorry replacement for the venerable EA-3B.
All 16 ES-3 aircraft were modified S-3 Viking airframes. Political pressure by Lockheed upon the Georgian congressional delegation forced the US Navy to select a modified S-3 over a modified Fokker F-27 (which would have come close to the EA-3B speed with an increase in range).
The S-3's submarine detection and other maritime surveillance equipment was removed and the weapons bay fitted with avionics racks to accommodate the ES-3's sensors. The first ES-3A was delivered in 1991. U.S. carriers typically deployed with two Shadow aircraft embarked. Dismal performance of the equipment led to the removal of all ES-3 aircraft from active service. They were placed in storage by September, 1999.
General characteristics
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