The ES-3A Shadow crew is comprised of a pilot, an NFO, and two systems operators. Advanced sensor, navigation and communications systems allow the ES-3A's four-person crew to collect extensive data, and distribute that high-quality info through a variety of channels in to the carrier battle group. This provides the battle group commander a clear imagine of potential airborne, surface and sub-surface threats.
The ES-3A is a signal intelligence modification of those S-3 Viking anti-submarine aircraft. All 16 ES-3 aircraft look like modified S-3 Viking airframes. It replaced the EA-3B Skywarrior (commonly referred to as the Whale), a veteran of over 40 years fleet service.




















