Sikorsky Selects BAE Systems to Develop Active Inceptor System for UH-60M Black Hawk
13 Feb 2006 | Ref. 008/2006
ROCHESTER, United Kingdom -- Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. has selected BAE Systems to develop the active pilot inceptor system for the U.S. Armys UH-60M Black Hawk program. The system will replace the mechanical pilot controls on the current UH-60 with active technology that saves weight and provides pilots with intuitive tactile cues for easier handling and reduced workload.
The Black Hawk will be the worlds first production helicopter to combine active inceptor technology with a fly-by-wire system. Sikorsky intends to install the controls on production UH-60Ms beginning with the 150th aircraft.
"BAE Systems is an industry leader in safety-critical systems, and our selection on the Black Hawk will significantly assist Army helicopter pilots," said Mike Austill, managing director of Avionic Systems for BAE Systems. "Helicopter pilots face extreme demands in balancing mission objectives and the challenge of handling the aircraft, and our technology squarely addresses their need for reduced workload."
BAE Systems also has development contracts for active inceptor technology for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and the T-50 trainer.
The active collective and cyclic control system will replace a mechanical setup of rods and bellcranks, providing an electrical interface with the fly-by-wire system and reducing weight. The system provides dynamically variable cues that the pilot will be able to feel when handling the controls.
About BAE SYSTEMS:
BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery, and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea, and in space. The Company designs, manufactures, and supports military aircraft, combat vehicles, surface ships, submarines, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years and is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems. BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The Company employs 100,000 people worldwide and generates annual sales of approximately 14.8 billion through its wholly owned and joint-venture operations.
For further information, please contact:
Larry Stone, BAE Systems
Tel: +1 607-770-3944
Mobile: +1 607-759-2545
lawrence.w.stone@baesystems.com
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