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
ODU RT

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

Advertisement
Hexagon leaderboard
Royal Navy uses tech for operational edge in Information Warfare

Defence Events

Royal Navy uses tech for operational edge in Information Warfare

7 May 2026

Navy Digital – the Service’s experts in digital capabilities, skills and Information Warfare – and other specialists from across the Royal Navy, teamed up with industry partners to test off-the-shelf cutting-edge technology that, when linked together, creates a ‘mesh network’ which can be deployed to enable front line operations.

MoD awards £6m eLoran concept contract to Team Elaris

Defence

MoD awards £6m eLoran concept contract to Team Elaris

7 May 2026

QinetiQ-led Team Elaris has been awarded a £6 million contract with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) to develop a deployable solution concept for enhanced Long-Range Navigation (eLoran).

BFBS selects Synamedia to deliver UK Armed Forces

Defence

BFBS selects Synamedia to deliver UK Armed Forces' digital platform

7 May 2026

Media organisation and military charity BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) today announced it has selected Synamedia as its strategic technology partner to deliver its next-generation global digital platform, following a highly competitive international tender process launched in February 2025, attracting tech and media ...

Voyant appoints James Norwood as CEO

Aerospace Defence Security

Voyant appoints James Norwood as CEO

7 May 2026

Voyant today announced the appointment of James Norwood as Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Advertisement
ODU RT
SEA awarded King’s Award for International Trade

Defence

SEA awarded King’s Award for International Trade

6 May 2026

Defence tech company SEA, part of the Cohort plc Group, has been awarded the King’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade in recognition of its sustained global growth and success in exporting advanced fleet protection and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

Weald Electronics celebrates 50th Anniversary

Aerospace Defence

Weald Electronics celebrates 50th Anniversary

6 May 2026

Horsham based Weald Electronics Ltd, a major UK manufacturer of electrical connectors and accessories for defence and demanding industrial applications established on 27th April 1976, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner