October 25, 2010 - BAE Systems will leverage its legacy of avionic expertise for the design, production, and support of flight control computers for Embraer Legacy 450 and 500 business jets.  

“We are very pleased that our strategic teaming agreement with BAE Systems for the flight control computer is in place, offering Embraer the combined strength of Parker and BAE Systems in support of its Legacy 450/500 programs.” 

Under contract to Parker Aerospace, BAE Systems’ work will include a primary flight control computer that will provide a lightweight, high-integrity solution that reduces fuel consumption and pilot workload.

BAE Systems has developed and sold more than 2,600 primary flight control computers for the Boeing 777 airliner and 7,500 slat and flap control computers for the Airbus A320 series, in addition to supplying fly-by-wire flight control systems for military aircraft including the Eurofighter Typhoon.  

Since the program’s inception in late 2008, the BAE Systems-Parker Aerospace team has passed critical design review, and the first prototypes have been shipped to Parker for integration. The development program, from requirements definition to first flight in 2011, will be completed in less than three years.

Based on concepts presented in 2007 and formally launched in 2008, the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 set new paradigms in their categories. These aircraft will have the largest and quietest cabin in their classes. A flat-floor stand-up (6-foot) cabin, excellent pressurization, and vacuum lavatories are other highlights of the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500, complementing their superior performance and low operating costs. The jets will be the only ones in their segments equipped with cutting-edge fly-by-wire electronic flight controls. 

The Legacy 450 is designed to carry up to nine passengers. Its range will be 2,300 nautical miles (4,260 km) with four passengers plus NBAA IFR reserves, meaning the jet will be able to fly nonstop from London (U.K.) to Moscow (Russia); or from Delhi (India) to Dubai (United Arab Emirates).