BAE Systems has delivered the first Vehicle Management Computer
(VMC) for the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The shoebox-sized
computer, built around two Motorola PowerPC chips, houses hardware
and software for the JSF's flight-critical systems, including
flight control, fuel, hydraulic and electrical systems.
Each JSF will have three VMCs in a triple-redundant system. The
first VMCs will be installed in the F-35 Vehicle Systems Integration
Facility at Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth, Texas plant. This is
a full-scale test rig where utility and flight-control components
can be tested before they are built into the F-35, which is due
to make its first flight in late 2005. The VMC itself is designed
to accommodate later, more powerful commercial processors as they
become available.
