IAI S-2T Turbo Tracker
Israel Aerospace Industries · Israel · first flew 1988 · transport aircraft
The IAI S-2T Turbo Tracker is an Israel Aerospace Industries remanufacturing programme that replaces the original piston engines of the Grumman S-2 Tracker with Garrett TPE331 turboprops for improved performance and extended service life.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboprop, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | Twin-boom tail and deep fuselage from original anti-submarine Tracker airframe |
| T — Tail | Twin fin |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- IAI turboprop reengining of S-2 Tracker for Taiwan and other operators
- Garrett TPE331 engines replacing Wright R-1820 radials
- Twin-boom tail and deep fuselage from original anti-submarine Tracker airframe
Turboprop cowlings replacing the round radial nacelles are the key visual change from the standard Tracker; IAI conversion differs from Marsh's primarily in avionics fit and minor structural details.
Specifications
- The IAI S-2T Turbo Tracker has a length of 13.26 m (44 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 22.12 m (73 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 463 km/h (288 mph).
- Typical crew: 2-4.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
IAI developed the S-2T conversion in the 1980s for the Republic of China Air Force (Taiwan), which needed to extend the operational life of its S-2 maritime patrol fleet. The programme replaced both Wright R-1820 radials with 1,645-shp TPE331 engines, substantially improving range, reliability, and maintainability. Converted aircraft remained in Taiwanese maritime patrol and anti-submarine service into the 2000s.
Variants
The IAI S-2T is distinct from the Marsh Aviation S-2F3AT conversion, using different engine mountings and avionics updates; Taiwan was the primary customer.
Where you'll see it
Operated by the Republic of China Air Force in the maritime patrol role; some examples later transferred to fire-fighting duties in Taiwan.
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