Boeing E-3 Sentry is an American airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft – commonly known as AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) – provides all-weather surveillance, command, control, and communications Boeing E-3 Sentry is an American airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft – commonly known as AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) – provides all-weather surveillance, command, control, and communications The C-17 commonly performs tactical and strategic airlift missions, transporting troops and cargo throughout the world; additional roles include medical evacuation and airdrop duties The P-8 operates in the anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and shipping interdiction roles.