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The Navy's Operational Test and Evaluation Force identified the EP-3E Aries II Sensor System Improvement Program 4.0 upgrade operationally effective and operationally suitable last September and recommended it for fleet introduction. SSIP enhances the EP-3E's signals collection capability and provides the crew with an improved communication suite. The two Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadrons, VQ-1 at NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, and VQ-2 at NAF Rota, Spain, employ a total of twelve EP-3E aircraft. Currently, five P-3Cs are undergoing conversion to become EP-3Es. When completed, these additional aircraft will provide a sufficient inventory of primary and backup aircraft to sustain an inventory of a dozen EP-3Es throughout the platform’s remaining operational life.
Photo By Pm2 Michael Sandberg
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