Designers at L-3 Communications Integrated Systems in Greenville, Texas, needed a digital autopilot system for the P-3 Orion antisubmarine patrol aircraft they were delivering to their client, the Republic of Korea navy.
They found a solution with BAE Systems in Los Angeles. As part of a team headed by Korea Aerospace Industries, L-3 is providing mission system modernizations and service life extensions for eight ROK Navy P-3 aircraft.
Under a $6 million subcontract, BAE Systems will deliver its dual-redundant, digital autopilot system that offers enhanced safety, high system reliability, and low operating costs. It is lighter, more capable, and more reliable than the legacy analog systems, providing pilots with enhanced modes of operation that include control-wheel steering, navigation steering, a broad range of hold modes, and automatic approach to CAT-I landings.
The digital autopilot comprises solid-state rate gyro assemblies, autopilot computers, flight sensors, and autopilot control panels. It provides ARINC 429/MIL-STD-1553 interfaces that are compatible with current and anticipated Global Air Traffic Management requirements. For more information, see www.na.baesystems.com.