The "Tracker" could be equipped with up to 32 sono-buoys, an APS-38 search radar in a retractable radome, and magnetic anomaly detection (MAD) gear. Armament included a fuselage weapons-bay for one depth-bomb or two homing torpedoes and six underwing pylons capable of handling depth-bombs, torpedoes or rockets.

The first of 755 production model S-2s entered service in 1954 and soon established themselves as the Navy's front line carrier based ASW air-craft. Later versions carried "Jezebel" passive long-range acoustic search equipment and "Julie" explosive echo-sounding equipment.

Powered by two 1,525 hp Wright engines and manned by a crew of four (two pilots, two radar operators), the S-2 grossed out at 26,867 lbs, had a maximum speed of 253 mph and a range of 1150 statute miles.