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
-
![US Army orders more Switchblades]()
US Army orders more Switchblades
A $20.6 million deal is the latest order from the US Army for Switchblades, dating back to 2011.
-
![Northrop Grumman opens up on B-21 digital engineering data]()
Northrop Grumman opens up on B-21 digital engineering data
An ‘industry-first’ digital engineering data rights agreement for the B-21, involving Northrop Grumman and the USAF, is designed to improve transparency and collaboration.
-
![Compass Call set for initial EC-37B flight tests in January 2023]()
Compass Call set for initial EC-37B flight tests in January 2023
BAE Systems has completed final hardware component deliveries of its Compass Call airborne EW jammer for the new EC-37B aircraft.
-
![Singapore leaves door open to F-35 variants]()
Singapore leaves door open to F-35 variants
Singapore is evaluating other variants of the F-35 in additional to the STOVL variant it has on order.
