Flight control tech to be applied to Dreadnought submarines

Similar to fly-by-wire controls for aircraft, BAE’s engineers are developing the Active Vehicle Control Management (AVCM) system that will control the heading, pitch, depth and buoyancy of the four Dreadnought class boats.

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The innovation has been developed in Rochester, Kent, with engineers in the Electronic Systems business working with colleagues across the company’s Maritime and Air sectors.

Jon Tucker, director for maritime controls at BAE Systems Rochester, said: “With over 50 years of avionics experience, we already have a great understanding of how to develop complex, control systems for hi-tech platforms. However, taking our technology underwater brings exciting new challenges and we are proud to support the Dreadnought programme and play an important part in our national security effort.”

Work has already begun on the programme, which is supporting over 130 positions in Rochester, with more recruitment expected. The programme is one of the largest developmental projects taking place at the Rochester site where new investment has been made into new labs and workspaces.