A BAE Systems received a contract to modernize flight control computers (FCC) Fly-by-wire process (FBW) of F-15EX jets eagle II and F/A-18E/F Super HornetThese models are the newest and probably last variants of their respective jet families.

While the first F-15EX are being delivered, the last order for the Super Hornet was carried out. The modernization of the on-board computers underscores how modern fighter jets are becoming increasingly sophisticated and function as supercomputers during flight.

A BAE Systems announced on August 20 that it will provide a technology upgrade for the F-15EX and F/A-18 Super Hornet jets. The upgrade is designed to improve the aircraft’s computing power and performance. The company also pointed out that the two aircraft’s flight control computers use common core electronics.

“As the original manufacturer of the FCCs for both aircraft, BAE Systems will modernize the FCCs’ electronic hardware and software to increase processing power, improve cybersecurity and product safety, address obsolescence issues and support future sustainability.” – BAE Systems

These computers efficiently manage the aircraft’s flight by processing the pilot’s inputs and monitoring motion conditions in real time. They control the control surface actuators and allow pilots to focus more on the mission than on controlling the aircraft.

BAE Systems, one of the main suppliers of the Eurofighter Typhoon, is also one of the prime contractors for the sixth-generation BAE Tempest project, part of the Global Combat Aircraft Program (GCAP). The Tempest is being developed in partnership with Japan’s Mitsubishi and Italy’s Leonardo and is scheduled to enter service in 2035.

A Boeing is the main contractor for the Eagle II and the Super Hornetbut the production of flight control computers (FCC) is the responsibility of BAE SystemsAlthough BAE does not manufacture aircraft for the U.S. Air Force and Navy, its technologies are incorporated into many models, including the F-35, for which the company is a major supplier.

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