The WP-3Ds and WC-130Js fly directly into the storms, usually between 8,000-10,000 feet over the water. These are the aircraft you get the eye views from. The WP-3Ds have three radar systems (shown by arrows), can launch scientific instruments, and collect lots of other data. 
Our WC-130J friends may not have as many radars as the WP-3Ds, but they also launch scientific instruments and collect plenty of data. They also typically get tasked earlier for low level invests down at just 1,500 feet above the water, which is pretty low! (image from WP-3D)
The Gulfstream-IV is used for high altitude surveillance missions above, around, and in front of the storms. It can reach up to 45,000 feet and provides valuable data on the environment around the storms that really determines where they’re going and what will feed into them.
All of these aircraft together help provide a clear picture of what’s going on with a storm. Their crews, the maintainers, and the good folks at @NHC_Atlantic work to improve forecast models so that you and your neighbors can know when a storm is headed your way.
This is NOAA heavy on imagery but I’m a NOAA guy so if you want more @53rdWRS imagery be sure to follow them along with:
@GBlack22wx
@JeremyDeHart53d
@FlynonymousWX
And they can let me know who else I’m missing.
@GBlack22wx
@JeremyDeHart53d
@FlynonymousWX
And they can let me know who else I’m missing.
