The Mission of a C-2A GREYHOUND
Courtesy RVAW-120 Greyhawks

   Nicknamed the "COD" for its Carrier Onboard Delivery mission, the Grumman C-2A Greyhound is a carrier-based transport capable of carrying a mix of 10,000 pounds of high-priority cargo and passengers. The COD can accommodate up to 26 passengers or up to 20 litter patients. The COD is capable of carrying jet engines, dropping special forces, or delivering the mail. Cargo tiedown is facilitated by a cage system that can restrain the cargo under loads of up to 20 g's forward and from the catapulting and arresting loads encountered during carrier operation. The COD is also capable of air dropping search and rescue (SAR) equipment.

Anywhere in the World

   The C-2A has a wide range of communications and radio navigation equipment that is compatible with both military and civil airways on a worldwide basis. Communications equipment includes HF, VHF, and UHF; radio navigation aids include GPS, TACAN, dual VOR/ILS, UHF/DF, LF/ADF, an integrated weather radar, doppler, and two carrier approach systems.

   The current model, the C-2A(R) was manufactured in the mid 1980's and is a reprocured version of the C-2A. The C-2s replaced the C-1A Traders as the mainstay of the carrier logistics fleet. The current fleet of C-2A(R)s is scheduled for a Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) which will extend the life of the C-2 to year 2027. Designed from the basis of the E-2C Hawkeye, surprisingly the COD shares few common parts with the newer versions of the Hawkeye. These aircraft will undergo an upgrade of navigational systems, including installation of a dual INS system called CAINS II.

   The crew consists of a pilot, co-pilot, crew chief, and a second aircrewman. An automatic flight control system provides directional stability augmentation, three axis attitude control, and altitude hold control.

   The two C-2 squadrons, based in San Diego and Norfolk, provide support to our fleet worldwide from home or as detachments aboard Carrier Battle Groups. One detachment is permanently forward-deployed in Atsugi, Japan. Whenever a Carrier Battle Group is away from home, a detachment of CODs is there providing support.