From S-2 Tracker to S-3 Viking and helicopters

Why was there no replacement for the S-2 Tracker, and should P-8 purchases be cut to buy one?

The S-3 Viking replaced the Tracker, while helicopters later absorbed much of the Viking's carrier ASW role as a space-saving but incomplete substitute.

The Tracker did receive a fixed-wing successor in the S-3 Viking. The gap being discussed arose with the Viking's replacement by helicopters. The rationale offered is limited hangar space: carrying more aircraft of one type could make more airframes available than keeping separate helicopter and Viking squadrons. The panel describes helicopters as roughly a seventy-percent substitute and favours retaining both capabilities. It does not specify a reduction in P-8 purchases.