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| The Grumman S-2 (S2F) "Tracker" was developed and first flown in 1952 to replace hunter/killer aircraft for anti-submarine warfare operations. Design criteria required that the aircraft accommodate air-to-underwater guided missile torpedoes and associated electronic equipment, and be capable of long-range search missions at low altitudes while flying in all-weather conditions from an aircraft carrier.
The "Tracker" could be equipped with up to 32 sono-buoys, an APS-38 search radar in a retractable radome, and magnetic anomaly detection (MAD) gear. Armament included a fuselage weapons-bay for one depth-bomb or two homing torpedoes and six underwing pylons capable of handling depth-bombs, torpedoes or rockets. The first of 755 production model S-2s entered service in 1954 and soon established themselves as the Navy's front line carrier based ASW air-craft. Later versions carried "Jezebel" passive long-range acoustic search equipment and "Julie" explosive echo-sounding equipment. Powered by two 1,525 hp Wright engines and manned by a crew of four (two pilots, two radar operators), the S-2 grossed out at 26,867 lbs, had a maximum speed of 253 mph and a range of 1150 statute miles. SPECIFICATIONS: Type:ASW search and strike Crew:Two pilots; two radar operators Power Plant:Two 1,520 hp Wright R-1820-82WA Dimensions:Span 72' 7 Weight:26,867 lbs gross Speed:253 mph maximum Range:550 miles tactical |
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| Bibliography: National Museum of Naval Aviation |