BAE Systems Begins Upgrades On Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II Aircraft

BAE Systems Platform Solutions received a contract from Lockheed Martin Systems Integration-Owego, the A-10 prime contractor and Prime Team lead. The team also includes Southwest Research Institute and Northrop Grumman.

The effort to equip the entire Thunderbolt fleet with an Integrated Flight and Fire Control Computer (IFFCC) is valued at $30 million.

Accompanied by an updated Suite 2 software package, the new control is significantly improving aircraft and weapon-system safety, accuracy, and maintainability.

"Since the 1970s, the A-10 has been a vital component of the Air Force's close-air support capability, and we are proud of our continuing role in improving this very capable platform," said Jim Garceau, vice president of Aerospace Controls for BAE Systems Platform Solutions.

The Platform Solutions unit developed and produced the A-10's Low-Altitude Safety and Targeting Enhancement system, forerunner to IFFCC.

BAE Systems is producing the new computers and working closely with Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force to manage system installations on all A-10 squadrons throughout the world.

The company is providing on-site engineering support and familiarization training for pilots and maintenance personnel.

An automated, continuously computed weapon delivery function that improves accuracy and reduces pilot workload.
A digital terrain system that uses terrain elevation data for ground collision avoidance and to aid in weapon delivery. The system incorporates BAE Systems' TERPROM digital terrain software.
Growth capability to support additional functions, including the Precision Engagement Suite 3 modification.
Easier system maintenance and elimination of parts obsolescence issues associated with the previous-generation technology.