Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • BAE Systems providing ACUs for JetZero demonstrator

Defence

BAE Systems providing ACUs for JetZero demonstrator

BAE Systems will provide and integrate actuator control units (ACUs) for JetZero's next-generation blended wing body aircraft demonstrator, which is designed to deliver enhanced energy efficiency and reduced emissions.

Image courtesy JetZero

As part of the flight control system, BAE Systems' ACUs interpret flight control signals, including pilot commands from active control sticks, which the company will also provide for the demonstrator.

The advanced ACUs function as remote actuators within a distributed flight control system. The units' localised flight surface management capabilities deliver enhanced flight control with reliable, precise coordination and responsiveness.

Advertisement
ODU RT

"Our mature, highly capable actuator control units play a vital role in our shared vision of sustainable aviation with JetZero, seamlessly integrating with the flight control system," said Gary Battestin, director of Air Transport Systems for Controls and Avionics Solutions at BAE Systems. "This technology enhances overall flight performance, supporting a cleaner and more efficient future for air travel."

By providing both the ACUs and the pilot control inceptors, BAE Systems will minimise the integration time for the aircraft. The actuation controllers are proven, reliable and previously certified systems that reduce customer risk, reinforcing the company's leadership in stick-to-surface flight control solutions, from pilot input to surface response.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle

The ACUs will be designed and produced at the company's facilities in Endicott, New York and Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner
UK and European allies to develop advanced surface-to-air weapon

Defence

UK and European allies to develop advanced surface-to-air weapon

20 February 2026

UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP has announced today that Britain and its European allies will be better defended as they group together to develop advanced air defence weapons to protect European skies and strengthen NATO's shield.

BAE Systems rolls out CV9035 MkIV to Slovak Armed Forces

Defence Events

BAE Systems rolls out CV9035 MkIV to Slovak Armed Forces

20 February 2026

The CV9035 MkIV for the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic has been unveiled during a ceremonial rollout at BAE Systems Hägglunds in Sweden.

Wales to be UK launchpad for advanced autonomous tech

Aerospace Defence Security

Wales to be UK launchpad for advanced autonomous tech

20 February 2026

Thousands of skilled workers in Wales will be involved in the design, testing and manufacture of advanced autonomous technologies and unmanned systems, as a landmark £50 million Defence Growth Deal positions the nation at the forefront of Britain’s defence future.

BAE Systems and SURVICE partner on uncrewed air systems

Defence

BAE Systems and SURVICE partner on uncrewed air systems

20 February 2026

BAE Systems FalconWorks and SURVICE Engineering have signed a Framework Agreement to enable collaboration on the development of uncrewed air system (UAS) technologies.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
BAE Systems completes trials of ATLAS UGV

Defence

BAE Systems completes trials of ATLAS UGV

19 February 2026

BAE Systems has completed the latest trials of its Autonomous Tactical Light Armour System (ATLAS) Uncrewed Ground Vehicle (UGV).

Galvion unveils Hellbender ultra-lightweight helmet

Defence

Galvion unveils Hellbender ultra-lightweight helmet

19 February 2026

Galvion has unveiled the Batlskin Hellbender UL (Ultra-Light) helmet — a new ultra-lightweight ballistic head system developed to meet the evolving needs of modern armed forces operating at scale and seeking force-wide standardisation.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner