ROCHESTER, U.K. - BAE Systems in Rochester, U.K. will provide next-generation active control sidesticks for JetZero’s upcoming blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft. The active control sidesticks offer intuitive feedback to pilots, allowing safe and efficient use of the aircraft’s full flight capabilities. The system electronically links the controls between pilots, enabling both to feel and see each other's inputs in real-time. This design also reduces the weight and complexity associated with traditional mechanical controls.
JetZero Chief Operating Officer Dan da Silva praised the partnership: "Finalizing supplier contracts for the flight control systems is a significant milestone on our journey from design, to test, to demonstration. It's just the latest example of the steady progress JetZero is making toward building this airplane. BAE's reputation for excellence is well deserved, and we're so pleased to see their shared enthusiasm and belief in the blended-wing airplane we're building at JetZero."
Earlier in November, JetZero announced four other suppliers who will provide technology for its flight controls. Moog in Elma, N.Y. will supply the complete set of flight control actuators. The company has a long-standing reputation in providing control systems for major commercial aircraft platforms, including design, testing, and certification processes.
Safran Electronics & Defense in Alexandria, Va. will deliver key pilot control components, including throttle, rudder brake pedal, and speedbrake levers. These components will be used in both development labs and on the demonstrator aircraft.
Thales in Paris is providing its Fly-by-Wire flight control computers, used in over 12,000 aircraft globally. Thales’s technology aims to improve flight safety and reduce pilot workload through advanced flight control features.
Woodward in Fort Collins, Colo. will supply the Trim Control Module, used for pitch and yaw adjustments. The system uses Rotary Variable Differential Transformers manufactured at Woodward’s facility in Niles, Illinois, for precise control.
"This order is another significant step for BAE Systems in the aviation market and furthers the company's pursuit of a greener tomorrow," said Adam Taylor, business development and capability director at BAE Systems. "As the aerospace industry works diligently to lower emissions, we are proud to be part of JetZero's project to help further the industry's sustainability vision."
