Dynam E-2C Hawkeye Battery Guide
The Dynam E-2C Hawkeye is a 1500mm twin-engine RC scale airplane powered by two TomCat 3520-KV770 brushless motors and two TomCat Skylord 40A ESCs. Dynam recommends a 4S 14.8V 3200mAh 25C LiPo battery with an XT60 connector.
That official specification makes 3200mAh the safest starting point, but it is not the only practical option. Compatible 3300mAh, 3500mAh and 3700mAh packs can provide different combinations of battery positioning, voltage stability and usable flight reserve.
All six batteries shown in this collection are configured as compatible options. The three recommendations below are highlighted because they give E-2C Hawkeye owners clearly different choices rather than repeating several very similar specifications.
| Official Battery | 4S 14.8V 3200mAh 25C LiPo |
| Compatible Capacity Range | 3200–3700mAh |
| Battery Voltage | 4S LiPo or compatible 4S LiHV |
| Connector | XT60 |
| Aircraft CG | 95–100mm behind the wing leading edge at the root |
| Best Overall Choice | CNHL Black Series 3200mAh 4S 30C Shorty XT60 |
Our Top Three Batteries for the Dynam E-2C Hawkeye
1. Best Overall: CNHL Black Series 3200mAh 14.8V 4S 30C Shorty LiPo Battery with XT60 Plug
The CNHL Black Series 3200mAh 4S 30C Shorty is the closest overall match to the battery specification recommended for the Dynam E-2C Hawkeye. It retains the official 3200mAh capacity while increasing the discharge rating from the listed 25C minimum to 30C.
The short pack format is particularly useful in this aircraft. It gives the pilot additional room to adjust the battery on the wooden tray, secure the leads and keep the XT60 cable away from the retractable nose-gear mechanism.
A 3200mAh 30C battery has a theoretical continuous-current figure of 96A. Actual usable output depends on battery condition, temperature, wiring and voltage sag, but the specification provides sensible headroom for a stock twin-motor system using two 40A ESCs.
Best for: stock-like balance, routine scale flying, easier battery positioning and pilots who want the closest alternative to Dynam’s official battery recommendation.
2. Longer-Flight Choice: CNHL 3700mAh 14.8V 4S 40C LiPo Battery with XT60 Plug
The CNHL 3700mAh 4S 40C is the preferred higher-capacity option for this E-2 Hawkeye RC plane. Its capacity is approximately 16% greater than that of a 3200mAh pack, providing more stored energy for scale circuits, low passes, repeated approaches and a sensible landing reserve.
That does not automatically translate into 16% more flight time. The larger pack may add installed weight, and actual endurance remains affected by throttle use, wind, flying style, propeller load and battery condition.
The main reason to choose this battery is its additional capacity rather than its higher printed C rating. After installation, verify that the model still balances within the specified 95–100mm CG range.
Best for: longer scale flights, additional go-around reserve and pilots who do not mind a modest increase in battery weight.
3. High-Output Choice: CNHL Lightning LiHV 3500mAh 15.2V 4S 120C HV LiPo Battery with XT60 Plug
The CNHL Lightning LiHV 3500mAh 4S 120C combines slightly more capacity than the standard 3200mAh recommendation with the voltage support of a performance-oriented LiHV pack.
This makes it the strongest performance choice for pilots concerned about voltage sag during twin-motor takeoff, sustained climb or repeated acceleration. Its 3500mAh capacity also provides a modest increase in stored energy without moving directly to the largest 3700mAh option.
A fully charged standard 4S LiPo reaches 16.8V at 4.20V per cell. A 4S LiHV battery charged to its full 4.35V-per-cell setting reaches 17.4V.
Do not use the full 17.4V LiHV setting unless the complete aircraft power system has been confirmed to support it. When full LiHV voltage compatibility has not been verified, charge the pack to 4.20V per cell and use it at the same maximum voltage as a conventional 4S LiPo.
Best for: high discharge headroom, stronger voltage stability and a performance-focused Dynam E2C Hawkeye setup.
Should You Choose 3200mAh, 3300mAh, 3500mAh or 3700mAh?
The right capacity depends on whether you prioritize stock-like handling, voltage support or flight reserve.
3200mAh: Closest to the Factory Setup
A 3200mAh pack follows Dynam’s published recommendation and is the logical starting point for the first flight. It minimizes the risk of unnecessarily increasing the flying weight and normally provides the greatest freedom to position the pack for the correct CG.
Choose the Black Series 3200mAh Shorty for a standard LiPo setup or the Lightning LiHV 3200mAh when you want LiHV chemistry while retaining the stock capacity.
3300mAh: A Conservative Step Up
The two 3300mAh packs remain very close to the official specification. The 30C version is a straightforward near-stock alternative, while the 40C version adds discharge headroom without materially changing the listed capacity.
This capacity also closely reflects independent flight testing in which both 3200mAh and 3400mAh 4S packs were used without requiring a major change in battery position.
3500mAh: Performance and Capacity Balance
The Lightning LiHV 3500mAh is intended for pilots who want a modest capacity increase combined with stronger voltage support. It sits between the stock-like 3200–3300mAh group and the higher-capacity 3700mAh pack.
3700mAh: Maximum Capacity in This Collection
The 3700mAh 4S 40C pack is the largest option listed for the Dynam Hawkeye. It is the most appropriate choice when additional usable energy and landing reserve matter more than achieving the lightest possible battery setup.
Always rebalance the airplane after moving to a different battery. Capacity alone does not reveal the pack’s dimensions, weight distribution or effect on the final center of gravity.
Why the Hawkeye Does Not Need an Extreme C Rating
Dynam specifies a 3200mAh 25C battery. Multiplying 3.2Ah by 25 gives a theoretical continuous-current figure of 80A, which corresponds to the combined published ratings of the aircraft’s two 40A ESCs.
This does not mean the two motors continuously consume exactly 80A, nor does it guarantee that every battery delivers its printed rating under all conditions. It does show why a healthy, correctly sized 30C or 40C pack is already appropriate for the stock power system.
A higher C rating can help reduce voltage sag and provide more current reserve, but it should not replace checks for:
- Correct battery dimensions and installed weight
- Secure XT60 and balance-lead routing
- Battery condition and cell balance
- Adequate cooling around the ESCs and motors
- Correct propeller installation and motor direction
- Final aircraft center of gravity
Battery Installation and CG Setup
The Dynam E-2C Hawkeye uses a convenient top-loading battery compartment with a wooden battery tray. The tray provides room to move the battery while establishing the recommended 95–100mm balance point.
- Place the battery securely on the wooden tray.
- Move it forward or rearward until the model balances at 95–100mm.
- Secure the pack with the installed straps or suitable hook-and-loop material.
- Restrain the XT60 cable and balance lead.
- Keep all wiring clear of the retractable nose landing gear.
- Cycle the landing gear while observing the battery leads.
- Recheck the CG after changing battery model, capacity or installation position.
Do not leave the main battery lead loose inside the compartment. Movement of the cable could allow it to enter the nose-retract area during operation.
How the E-2 Hawkeye’s Flying Style Affects Battery Choice
The Dynam E-2C Hawkeye is best treated as a scale twin rather than an unlimited aerobatic model. Its strengths include realistic cruising, coordinated turns, gear passes, effective flap deployment and controlled powered approaches.
The stock twin-motor system provides enough power for confident takeoffs and normal climb-outs, but the airplane is not intended to feel excessively overpowered. A good battery should deliver stable power while preserving the model’s balance and scale handling.
The flaps allow the aircraft to slow down for landing, but the Hawkeye still benefits from carrying some throttle through the approach. It should not be treated as a completely power-off glider.
This makes usable battery reserve especially important. A pilot may need extra time for a go-around, gear recycle or a second landing approach. Select a conservative timer instead of attempting to use every available milliamp-hour during the first flights.
The Real Grumman E-2C Hawkeye Behind the RC Model
The full-size Grumman E-2 Hawkeye was developed as a carrier-based airborne early warning and command-and-control aircraft. Its high wing, twin turboprop engines, multiple vertical tails and large rotating radar dome created one of the most recognizable outlines in naval aviation.
The original Hawkeye first flew in 1960 and entered United States Navy service in 1964. The improved E-2C became operational in 1973 and continued the aircraft family’s airborne surveillance and fleet-coordination role.
Dynam translates that unusual aircraft into a 1500mm foam RC model with a functional 360-degree rotating radar dome, twin four-blade propellers, retractable tricycle landing gear, flaps and navigation lighting. It is this combination of recognizable E-2C Hawkeye scale details and genuine moving features that distinguishes the model from more conventional twin-engine RC airplanes.
Dynam E-2C Hawkeye Preflight Checks
The Hawkeye contains more mechanical and electrical systems than a basic sport airplane. Complete a detailed inspection before connecting a newly selected battery and making the first flight.
- Confirm that both motors start smoothly and together.
- Check that each motor rotates in the correct direction.
- Verify that the standard and reverse propellers are installed on the correct sides.
- Make sure both elevator halves move equally.
- Test the twin rudders and steerable nose wheel.
- Check both ailerons and all flap sections.
- Cycle the retracts repeatedly before takeoff.
- Inspect the radar dome, support and rotating mechanism.
- Confirm that the magnetic cowlings and detachable nose are secure.
- Check the 95–100mm CG with the flight-ready battery installed.
Dynam E-2C Hawkeye Battery FAQ
What is the best battery for the Dynam E-2C Hawkeye?
The CNHL Black Series 3200mAh 14.8V 4S 30C Shorty LiPo with XT60 is our best overall recommendation. Its capacity closely matches Dynam’s official 3200mAh specification, and the short format allows useful positioning space on the battery tray.
Can the Dynam E-2C Hawkeye use a 3700mAh 4S battery?
Yes. The CNHL 3700mAh 4S 40C XT60 battery is included as the higher-capacity option in this collection. Recheck physical clearance, cable routing and the 95–100mm CG after installation.
Is a 30C battery enough for the twin motors?
Yes. Dynam lists a 3200mAh 25C battery as the standard recommendation. A healthy 3200mAh 30C pack provides additional theoretical current headroom, although actual battery performance also depends on condition, temperature and voltage sag.
Can I use a 3300mAh or 3500mAh battery?
Yes. Both capacities fall within the compatible selection configured for this collection. The 3300mAh packs stay close to the original recommendation, while the 3500mAh Lightning LiHV provides a modest capacity increase and high-output chemistry.
How long can the Dynam E-2C Hawkeye fly?
Dynam lists an approximate flight time of nine minutes with the recommended setup. Actual flight time depends on capacity, throttle use, wind, flying style, battery age and the reserve retained for landing. Start with a conservative timer and adjust it according to the capacity returned to the pack after each flight.
What charging rate should I use?
A 1C balance charge is a sensible default unless the battery label and charger instructions specifically permit a different rate. That corresponds to 3.2A for 3200mAh, 3.3A for 3300mAh, 3.5A for 3500mAh and 3.7A for 3700mAh.
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