First Flight of Upgraded NATO E-3 AWACS

Boeing recently completed the first flight of a NATO AWACS aircraft with modern flight deck and avionics systems that replace 1970s-era analog systems.
During the two-hour flight testers evaluated five full-color glass displays with customizable engine, navigation and radar data. The systems performed better than expected and the program will now enter an extensive flight test qualification phase. Fourteen NATO AWACS in total will receive the flight deck modernization, delivery of the first upgraded aircraft is scheduled for January 2016.
The upgrades ensure compliance with current and future air traffic control and navigation requirements. They also resolve recurring issues involving out-of-production avionics by using commercial, off-the-shelf digital avionics. The AWACS is based on the Boeing 707.
Thirteen additional NATO AWACS will receive installation of the upgrade. boeing