BAE Systems’ next-generation vehicle management computer has been successfully flight-tested on the F-35 Lighting II aircraft.
The test, which occurred at Naval Air Station Patuxent and Edwards Air Force Base demonstrated the technology upgrade that can be carried out on all three F-35 variants to increase computer performance and address obsolescence issues.
BAE Systems’ Vehicle Management Computer (VMC) enables advanced control modes and improves mission efficiency and safety. The distributed architecture allows the aircraft to operate reliably with enhanced mission effectiveness in demanding environments.
The upgraded VMC will not only help to mitigate obsolescence but will also improve safety, maintainability, and availability of the aircraft for the U.S. military and its allies.
Corin Beck, director of Military Aircraft Systems for Controls and Avionics Solutions at BAE Systems said, “The VMC provides the high integrity processing required to implement the advanced control algorithms that enable this platform’s critical missions.
“This upgrade leveraged BAE Systems’ technology roadmap to ensure the F-35 will advance its mission management and flight control capabilities today and into the future.”
This technology upgrade incorporates a quad-core advanced processor, additional computing power which allows for extra aircraft capabilities while reducing pilot workload. It also adds advanced mission capabilities to the VMC such as the Joint Precision Approach and Landing System (JPALS) and Auto Ground Collision Avoidance System (AGCAS).
Work on the VMC is conducted at BAE Systems’ engineering and manufacturing facility in Endicott, New York.
BAE Systems is a global partner to Lockheed Martin on the F-35 program. The company provides the VMC, electronic warfare system, active inceptor control system, and aft fuselage for each F-35 at manufacturing facilities in the US, UK and Australia.
The company also delivers sustainability, technical support, and training services to keep the F-35s mission-ready.
