F-35 fighter obtains key production milestones

Aerospace and Defense Review | Thursday, April 28, 2022

BAE Systems recently delivered its 3,000th vehicle management computer for the F-35 Lightning II aircraft, achieving two major production milestones on the platform

FREMONT, CA: BAE Systems has delivered the F-35 Lightning II aircraft's 3,000th vehicle management computer (VMC) and 1,000th active inceptor system (AIS) to Lockheed Martin, marking two important manufacturing milestones for the programme. The VMC and AIS are mission-critical systems that enable each F-35 jet to fly safely and reliably in challenging circumstances while reducing pilot effort and increasing mission effectiveness. The active inceptor system and the vehicle management computer are flight-critical systems that enable each F-35 jet to function safely and reliably in difficult circumstances.

The VMC unit offers advanced hardware and computing for the F-35's digital fly-by-wire flight control system and utility systems (fuel, electrical, and hydraulic system controls), which improve mission efficiency and safety by maximising system integration. To meet programme requirements, BAE Systems has completed full-rate manufacturing, boosting deliveries from 10 to 25 ship sets per month.

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BAE Systems has also reached full-rate production of its active inceptors, which are utilised by the pilot to guide and manoeuvre the aircraft, at a rate of 19 ship sets per month. The inceptor control unit, active side-stick controller, and active quadrant throttle assembly make up the AIS. For greater situational awareness, safety, and mission survival, the high-integrity inceptors give pilots tactical feedback via active technology.

For best-in-class manufacturing efficiency and aftermarket service, the company continues to invest in equipment, testing, and infrastructure enhancements. These enhancements helped Lockheed Martin achieve a perfect quality rating for VMC and AIS manufacturing in 2020. The VMC and AIS are built at BAE Systems facilities in Endicott, New York, and Rochester, United Kingdom, respectively.

On the F-35 programme, BAE Systems is a major global partner for Lockheed Martin. The business also provides the platform's electronic warfare system, having delivered a total of 830 units to date from its Nashua, N.H. facility. The company manufactures the aft fuselage for each jet at its facilities in Lancashire, UK, in addition to providing mission-critical electronic warfare systems. The firm ensures the global fleet of F-35s is mission-ready through sustainability, technical support, and training.

 

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