Boeing has chosen BAE Systems to modernize the F-15EX Eagle II and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter aircraft’s fly-by-wire (FBW) flight control computers (FCC). The quad-redundant FBW flight control systems (FCS) are supported by the common core electronics found in the FCCs, which offer the performance, robustness, safety, and dependability required for these cutting-edge platforms’ missions.
BAE Systems, the original manufacturer of the FCCs for both aircraft, will update the FCC electronics hardware and software to improve cyber and product security, boost processing power, handle obsolescence issues, and support sustainment far into the future. The company’s high-integrity flight control product roadmap, which is based on technological investments and has been applied to several recent military airborne platform flight control upgrades, will be utilised by the enhanced FCC. The F/A-18E/F FCC will also receive an additional processor to enable future capabilities for the fleet.
“This update demonstrates our dedication to offering our customers next-generation solutions. BAE Systems is a leader in high-integrity controls,” stated Corin Beck, senior director of Military Aircraft Systems for Controls and Avionics Solutions at BAE Systems. “These platforms will maintain fleet readiness both now and in the future thanks to our cutting-edge flight-critical solution, which also equips the aircraft to support the integration of new functions.”
A process of the analysis of pilot inputs, real-time monitoring of aircraft movement circumstances through on-board sensors, and transmission of commands to actuators that move the control surfaces, these computers effectively control aircraft flight. The pilot can sustain controlled operation throughout the challenging flight regime and various loadout configurations thanks to the redundant FCS and flight control rules. Furthermore, the FCS is able to reconfigure how it controls the aircraft in case of a failure or battle damage by mixing the remaining control surfaces differently. The advanced FBW FCS allows the pilot to focus more on the mission and less on flying the aircraft.
