Air Industries Wins $2.6M Contract for Navy E-2D Hawkeye Landing Gear
Air Industries Group, a recognized leader in manufacturing precision components and assemblies for major aerospace and defense contractors, recently announced a significant achievement with the receipt of a $2.6 million contract for main landing gear assemblies for the US Navy’s E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft. This platform is critical to naval operations, providing unmatched capabilities in identifying threats, coordinating aircraft movements, and managing airspace for an Aircraft Carrier Battle Group.
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye plays a vital role in the US Navy’s operations, known for its superior command-and-control capabilities. With a Navy service life expected to extend into the 2040s, this aircraft remains central to Air Industries Group’s portfolio. The newly announced contract focuses on aftermarket maintenance, repair, and overhaul of existing aircraft in Navy service, complementing a prior $11 million award disclosed on December 9, which supported production of new aircraft. Notably, while the earlier contract involved a separate customer, this latest award underscores the growing demand for Air Industries’ support in both production and maintenance of the E-2D platform.
Strategic Significance of the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye
The E-2D Advanced Navy Hawkeye is a sophisticated airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) system that has been instrumental in strengthening the US Navy’s tactical operations. Equipped with state-of-the-art radar and communication systems, the E-2D ensures real-time situational awareness and threat detection. It serves as the “eyes in the sky” for Aircraft Carrier Battle Groups, Navy enhancing their ability to operate in contested environments.
The aircraft’s unique capabilities require Navy robust and reliable components, particularly for its landing gear assemblies, which endure significant stress during carrier operations. Air Industries’ proven track record in delivering high-quality, mission-critical components has made it a trusted partner for this program for decades.
CEO Insights on the Contract and Business Growth
Lou Melluzzo, Chief Executive Officer of Air Navy Industries Group, highlighted the importance of the E-2D program to the company’s business strategy. “The E-2D aircraft continues to be a cornerstone for Air Industries. Production of new E-2D aircraft continues, and there are numerous aircraft in the US Navy fleet. The aircraft is expected to remain in service into the 2040s. We have supported this program for decades, and we look forward to supporting it for many years to come. This new award supports our aftermarket initiative for this and other programs, and it is consistent with our plan to broaden our support of international customers.”
Melluzzo also emphasized the positive outcomes of the company’s business development initiatives, which began in 2023. He noted, “For all of calendar 2024, our bookings of new business have been strongly more than our billings. In December 2024 alone, we have announced three new contracts worth over $45 million dollars. Bookings lead to backlog, backlog leads to shipping and revenue. We are increasingly confident about our future.”
This level of confidence stems from a growing portfolio of contracts and a consistent ability to meet customer demands, both domestically and internationally. With the aftermarket segment gaining prominence, Air Industries is well-positioned to leverage its expertise and expand its market share.
Focus on Aftermarket Services
The recent $2.6 million contract underscores Air Industries’ strategic pivot toward strengthening its aftermarket services. As aircraft age, maintaining and upgrading their components becomes essential for extending operational life and ensuring safety. Air Industries’ capabilities in repair, overhaul, and maintenance allow it to meet the needs of a diverse customer base, including international operators. By broadening its aftermarket offerings, the company is creating new revenue streams and solidifying its role as a comprehensive service provider for mission-critical aerospace systems.
Business Development Success in 2024
The company’s momentum in securing new contracts reflects its successful business development efforts. Over the past year, Air Industries has significantly increased its bookings, with December 2024 marking a high point. Three major contracts announced in that month alone amounted to over $45 million in new business. These achievements signal strong demand for Air Industries’ products and services and lay the foundation for sustained growth in the years ahead.
Bookings, which represent the value of new contracts secured, are a key metric for assessing the company’s performance. High bookings contribute to a robust backlog, providing visibility into future revenues and enabling effective resource planning. The relationship between bookings, backlog, and revenue growth underscores the company’s strategic approach to scaling its operations.
Commitment to Quality and Reliability
Air Industries Group’s reputation for delivering precision components and assemblies is built on a foundation of quality and reliability. The company’s products, including landing gears, flight controls, engine mounts, and components for aircraft jet engines and ground turbines, are designed to meet the rigorous demands of aerospace and defense applications. Whether for new production or aftermarket support, these components play a critical role in ensuring the safety and performance of military and civilian operations.
Broader Implications for the Aerospace and Defense Sector
The aerospace and defense industry continues to prioritize modernization and readiness, driving demand for advanced systems and reliable components. Platforms like the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye are central to this effort, given their role in enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness. As the US Navy and other military forces invest in maintaining and upgrading their fleets, companies like Air Industries are positioned to benefit from sustained demand.
Additionally, the focus on aftermarket services reflects broader industry trends. With many defense platforms remaining in service for decades, the need for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services is growing. By expanding its aftermarket capabilities, Air Industries is aligning with this trend and ensuring its relevance in a competitive market.
Forward-Looking Statements and Risks
As a publicly traded company, Air Industries Group provides forward-looking statements to offer insights into its expectations for the future. These statements, while informative, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors such as changes in government funding, regulatory delays, and economic conditions can impact the company’s performance.
The company’s cautionary note highlights the inherent variability in project timing and outcomes. Despite these challenges, Air Industries’ strong track record and strategic initiatives provide a solid foundation for navigating industry dynamics.
The $2.6 million contract for E-2D Advanced Hawkeye landing gear assemblies marks another milestone for Air Industries Group. This award not only reinforces the company’s leadership in precision manufacturing but also highlights its growing focus on aftermarket services. By supporting both new production and maintenance needs, Air Industries is positioning itself as a trusted partner for the aerospace and defense sector.
With a robust pipeline of new contracts and a clear strategy for growth, Air Industries Group is well-equipped to capitalize on opportunities in the evolving aerospace and defense landscape. The company’s commitment to quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction remains at the core of its success, ensuring its continued contribution to mission-critical operations for decades to come.
