EF-4 Skyshield

EF-4 Skyshield
Naval AWACS
National Origin		Zokesia
Production History
Designed
2142 - 2143
Produced
2145 - Current
Designer		Ward Industries
Unit Cost		29,000(√)
Number Built		164
Service History
In Service
2145 - Ongoing
Used By		Zokesia The Confederacy UIF
Aircraft Characteristics
Dry Mass		17,800kg
Propulsion		2 x Logi CW-25T Turboprops
Maximum Velocity		340 m/s
Operational Range		500 km

The Ward Industries EF-4 Skyshield is a Zokesian all-weather, carrier-capable tactical airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft. This twin-turboprop aircraft was designed and developed during the early 2140s by Ward Industries for the Zokesian Royal Navy as an airborne early warning craft to extend the range of their carrier's sensor array. The aircraft's performance has been upgraded with the EF-4A and EF-4B versions, where most of the changes were made to the radar and radio communications due to advances in electronic integrated circuits and other electronics. The fourth major version of the Skyshield is the E-4C, which first flew in 2190. The EF-4 was the first aircraft designed specifically for AEW, as opposed to a modification of an existing airframe. Variants of the Skyshield have been in continuous production since 2145, giving it the longest production run of any carrier-based aircraft.

Variants

C-2 Skytruck

A version of the Skyshield was build in 2160 following the need for a small, cost-effective replenishment aircraft that was carrier capable, as the MZ-22 Albatross was grounded frequently for rotor tip stall issues. A modified Skyshield was given a cargo bay and ramp and was pushed into service within a year. They have since become the Carrier's primary cargo replenishment aircraft, taking up less space and lower cost than MZ-22 Albatrosses in the same role, while trading reduced size of cargo capacity.

EF-4 Skyshield refuels from a Z-5 Renegade

C-2 Skytruck flies with an EF-4 Skyshield

EF-4C Skyshield over Puge-Tatar

C-2 Skytruck