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BAE SYSTEMS awarded contract to develop helicopter electric actuation flight control system

27 May 2002

BAE Systems Avionics has recently signed a multi-million pound development contract with AgustaWestland. BAE Systems will be a member of a team, which includes Westland Helicopters, FHL (formerly Claverham) and the UK Ministry of Defence, which will develop a digital flight control computer as part of the Helicopter Electric Actuation Technology (HEAT) programme. In this development conventional power hydraulic systems, which help the pilot to control the aircraft, are replaced by all-electric controls. The HEAT programme, jointly funded by Industry and the UK Ministry of Defence, will be demonstrated on an EH101 helicopter.

This new control development brings fly-by-wire technology to helicopters, boosting performance by offering increased range or payload, enhanced handling, lower cost of ownership and improved reliability and safety.

Upon successful demonstration of the HEAT programme, the system will be available to fit to new build helicopters as well as for upgrading existing in-service helicopters.
Notes to Editors:

As a world leader, BAE Systems has over 30 years experience in flight control systems and the HEAT programme maintains the tradition of introducing innovative safety critical technology to the avionics market. BAE Systems designed and developed the world's first digital fly-by-wire systems which operate without mechanical back-up, including those fitted to the Eurofighter Typhoon and Boeing 777 airliner. With fly-by-wire flight control systems, pilot commands are transmitted to the aircraft's control surfaces electrically rather than by mechanical or hydraulic means.

The multi-role EH101, of which over 50 variants have been delivered to date, is the most advanced medium-lift helicopter in its class. The EH101 fleet has completed over 20,000 flying hours in total, establishing a high level of aircraft maturity since its maiden flight in 1987. It has been most recently ordered by the Royal Danish Air Force, and for a Search and Rescue, Combat SAR role and fishery protection by the Portuguese Government, bringing total orders to date to 124.