BAE System to Supply Flight Control System for World’s First Supersonic Business Jet

BAE Systems has received a contract from Aerion Supersonic to supply flight control system for its new AS2 supersonic business jet that will fly at a maximum speed of Mach 1.4 (about 1728 kilometers per hour).

BAE Systems will design, develop, and integrate a fly-by-wire flight control system, including active inceptors, for the new aircraft.

The new flight control system uses smaller and lighter components to allow for integration on the AS2 aircraft. The system will comprise active inceptors, primary flight control computers, actuator control units, and remote electronics units.

“BAE Systems’ innovative product portfolio enable us to create a technologically advanced and reliable flight control system tailored to the unique needs of the AS2 supersonic business jet,” said Tom Vice, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer at Aerion.

BAE Systems’ active inceptors will provide AS2 pilots with static and dynamic tactile force feedback in the palm of their hand. Unlike a passive system, the active inceptor includes electronic controlled actuators that send tactile feedback to the pilot through the flight stick. The feedback warns pilots of structural or aerodynamic operating limits – giving them improved situational awareness to maintain a safer, more stable flight.

Aerion's AS2 private jet is the first supersonic aircraft to use only synthetic fuel and reach supersonic speeds without the need for an afterburner. The business jet will enhance point-to-point travel with a maximum speed of Mach 1.4 – approx. 1,000 miles per hour – at 57,000 feet.

The AS2 is scheduled to commence production from the company’s new global headquarters and manufacturing and research campus – Aerion Park – in Melbourne, Florida, in 2023.

The flight control system development will be conducted at BAE Systems facilities in Endicott, New York, and Rochester, U.K.