Development and trends of airborne early warning systems for aircraft carrier groups

Since the emergence of carrier-based airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft as a new aircraft category in response to the maritime air defense requirements during the later stages of World War II, these aircraft have rapidly evolved into a core node of the air combat system for aircraft carrier groups, with their tactical value demonstrated in numerous combat operations. Over more than eight decades of development, driven by both operational demands and technological advancements, carrier-based AEW aircraft have achieved significant leaps in capability, while their role within aircraft carrier combat system has undergone profound transformation. Facing future challenges arising from increasing complex battlefield environments, emerging operational concepts, and innovative tactical approaches, this paper reviews the development history of carrier-based AEW aircraft and analyzes the evolution of their operational patterns. It further examines the key capability requirements for carrier-based AEW aircraft in addressing future combat threats and explores the prospective development trends of airborne early warning systems for aircraft carrier groups.