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BAE Systems achieves two F-35 Lightning II milestones

11th February 2022 - 17:31 GMT | by Shephard News Team

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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 3000^th vehicle management computer (VMC) and 1,000^th 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.