BAE Systems achieves two F-35 Lightning II milestones
The VMC and AIS are flight critical systems that provide the F-35 with the ability to fly safely and reliably. (Image: BAE Systems)
BAE Systems achieved two major F-35 production milestones with delivery of vehicle management computers and active inceptor systems.
BAE Systems recently delivered its 3000th vehicle management computer (VMC) and 1,000th active inceptor system (AIS) to Lockheed Martin for the F-35 Lightning II, achieving two major production milestones.
The VMC and AIS are flight critical systems that provide each F-35 jet with the ability to operate safely and reliably in demanding environments, with decreased pilot workload and enhanced mission effectiveness.
The VMC unit provides advanced hardware and computing for the F-35’s digital fly-by-the-wire flight control system and utility systems such as fuel, electrical and hydraulic system controls.
The AIS consists of the inceptor control unit, active side stick controller and active quadrant throttle assembly.
The high-integrity inceptors provide pilots with tactical feedback through active technology for increased situational awareness, safety and mission survivability.
BAE Systems has reached full-rate production – increasing deliveries from 10 shipsets per month to 25 shipsets per month to achieve programme requirements.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Portugal signals interest in establishing A-29N final assembly line]()
Portugal signals interest in establishing A-29N final assembly line
As the launch customer for the NATO-configured variant, Portugal also took delivery of the first five A-29N aircraft from its order for 12, placed in 2024.
-
![Leonardo signs contract on Austria’s M-346 aircraft order]()
Leonardo signs contract on Austria’s M-346 aircraft order
The first of the 12 M-346 aircraft are expected to be delivered to the Austrian Air Force by 2028, according to the company.
-
![2025 UAV market review: $7.8 billion in new contracts signed as US leads spending]()
2025 UAV market review: $7.8 billion in new contracts signed as US leads spending
Qatar and Indonesia followed the US’s high spending on new uncrewed aerial vehicle contracts across 2025, while MALE and micro drones and loitering munitions were particularly popular subcategories this year.
-
![German Navy in “ramp-up” phase as it welcomes first NH90 Sea Tiger delivery]()
German Navy in “ramp-up” phase as it welcomes first NH90 Sea Tiger delivery
With all 31 aircraft set to be delivered by 2030, the helicopters will gradually replace the ageing Sea Lynx fleet which are due to be retired in 2026.
-
![The future is here: Sixth-gen air dominance]()
The future is here: Sixth-gen air dominance
How RTX is equipping the military airspace – for today’s fleet and tomorrow’s fight.
