Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) today marked the 45th anniversary of the maiden flight of the C-2A Greyhound — the U.S. Navy’s premier platform for Carrier-on-Board Delivery (COD) to Carrier Strike Groups throughout the U.S. Navy fleet.

“This is a significant milestone for Northrop Grumman and the C-2A Greyhound Program,” said Jim Culmo, vice president of Airborne Early Warning and Battle Management Command and Control Programs for Northrop Grumman’s Aerospace Systems sector. “Since taking its first flight in November 18, 1964, and entering service with the U.S. Navy in 1966, Carrier Strike Groups have depended on the Northrop Grumman-built Greyhound to provide the critical logistics support they need to be mission ready at all times.”

In addition, the C-2 acts as the critical “first impression” of the United States when transporting foreign dignitaries and heads of state in support of U.S. engagement and foreign policy overseas.

A derivative of the E-2 Hawkeye, the C-2 Greyhound’s primary mission is to transport high-priority cargo, critical aircraft parts, mail and passengers to deployed Carrier Strike Groups. The two aircraft share a common wing and empennage, but the C-2 has a widened fuselage with a rear cargo loading ramp to facilitate quick cargo loading and off-loading. Together, this pair of aircraft provides security and sustainment for U.S. Navy deployed maritime forces.

The C-2A delivers up to 10,000 pounds of cargo over distances in excess of 1,000 n.m. without refueling. This capacity and range allows Carrier Strike Groups greater maneuver space and flexibility across a full range and type of operations. With a flexible interior configuration adaptable to accommodate cargo, passengers or both, the Greyhound can operate safely and seamlessly during carrier launch and landing cycles. The C-2’s folding wings allow it to minimize the amount of deck space it occupies when parked on the carrier deck and its on-board auxiliary power unit allows it to start its own engines and operate its electrical systems without outside assistance. These capabilities provide versatility not found in other cargo aircraft and help ensure carriers have the parts, supplies and personnel they need when they need them.

During a typical six-month deployment, a two-aircraft C-2 detachment will transport more than one million pounds of cargo, 5,000 passengers and accumulate approximately 1,000 flight hours.