BAE Systems, a global leader in defense, security, and aerospace, has been chosen by Boeing to enhance the fly-by-wire (FBW) flight control computers (FCC) for the F-15EX Eagle II and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter aircraft. These FCCs are crucial components that support the quad-redundant FBW flight control systems (FCS), ensuring the safety, reliability, robustness, and performance required for the demanding missions of these advanced military platforms.
With a rich history as the original manufacturer of the FCCs for both aircraft, BAE Systems will undertake the task of modernizing the FCC electronics hardware and software. This upgrade aims to boost processing power, improve cyber and product security, address obsolescence concerns, and facilitate long-term sustainment. Leveraging its high-integrity flight control product roadmap, which has been honed through extensive technology investments and applied to numerous recent military airborne platform flight control upgrades, BAE Systems is well-equipped to deliver cutting-edge solutions for the F-15EX Eagle II and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.
Corin Beck, senior director of Military Aircraft Systems for Controls and Avionics Solutions at BAE Systems, emphasized the company’s dedication to providing next-generation solutions. Beck stated, “BAE Systems is a leader in high-integrity controls, and this upgrade reflects our commitment to providing our customers with next-generation solutions. Our advanced flight-critical solution ensures that these platforms will maintain fleet readiness now and in the future, as well as provisions the aircraft to support the integration of new functions.”
The FCCs play a pivotal role in managing aircraft flight by processing pilot inputs, monitoring real-time aircraft movement conditions through on-board sensors, and transmitting commands to actuators that control the aircraft’s surfaces. The redundant FCS, combined with sophisticated flight control laws, enables pilots to maintain controlled operation across various flight conditions and loadout configurations. In the event of a failure or battle damage, the FCS can adapt by redistributing control surface functions, allowing the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft effectively. The advanced FBW FCS ultimately enables pilots to focus more on mission objectives and less on the intricacies of flying the aircraft.
With over 40 years of experience in developing and integrating flight control technology for military and commercial platforms, BAE Systems is well-positioned to execute this critical upgrade. The work will be carried out at the company’s state-of-the-art engineering and manufacturing facility in Endicott, New York, ensuring that the F-15EX Eagle II and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet remain at the forefront of technological advancement in the aerospace industry.