Decades worth of flight control expertise is underwater on board the next generation of British submarines.
BAE Systems said it is adapting controls typically used in fly-by-wire aircraft and applying them in a marine environment for dreadnought-class submarines. The complete AVCM (Active Vehicle Control Management) system will monitor all important aspects of the maneuverability of the submarines for maximum safety and reliability, similar to existing systems on modern air traffic platforms.
Jon Tucker, Director of Maritime Controls at BAE Systems Controls and Avionics, said, “With over 50 years of experience in avionics, we already have a thorough understanding of how to develop complex control systems for high-tech platforms. However, bringing our technology underwater brings exciting new challenges. We are proud to support the Dreadnought Program and to play an important role in our national safety efforts. “
Similar to how fly-by-wire works for aircraft – using electronic systems to control aircraft movement – engineers at BAE Systems are developing electronics that control the course, pitch, depth and lift of the Dreadnought class, among other things additional security benefits.
The work has already started and supports more than 130 high quality jobs in Rochester, UK. The number is expected to increase. The program is one of the largest development projects at the Rochester site. BAE Systems has invested in the creation of new laboratories and workspaces to support this exciting program.
The innovation was developed in Rochester, UK. Engineers in our electronic systems business work closely with colleagues in the company’s marine and aviation sectors to develop a world-class system. Engineers will continue to develop the technologies to extend their applications to both other underwater and surface vessels.
