BAE SYSTEMS Selected by Hispano-Suiza to Develop Electronic Engine Control for Airbus A400M Transport

Business Wire, Oct 10, 2005

JOHNSON CITY, N.Y. -- BAE Systems, in partnership with Hispano-Suiza (SAFRAN Group), will develop the full-authority digital electronic control (FADEC) for EuroProp International's TP400-D6 engine, slated to power the new Airbus A400M military transport. The control, derived from the "FADEC 3" control design, will manage critical functions for the A400M's four turboprop engines.

The FADEC will govern engine fuel flow and variable engine geometries, manage propeller blades (including synchrophasing), and perform other advanced functions. The TP400-D6 will be the first turboprop derivative of the FADEC 3, which is used on numerous commercial platforms. It controls the world's highest-thrust engine, the GE90-115B, which powers the extended-range Boeing 777-300. The FADEC 3 also is being qualified for upgraded versions of the C-5 Galaxy transport.

"The TP400 FADEC is based upon our latest generation of engine controls, which are the most powerful and versatile engine controls available, representing an order-of-magnitude increase in processing power over competing systems and continuing to set new standards in performance and customer satisfaction," said Dennis Slattery, director of engine controls for BAE Systems. "We're proud to have been selected to develop a version of this control for the new Airbus transport. This award from Hispano-Suiza reinforces our partnership and reflects both companies sharing opportunities to grow together."

Employing an Ethernet-based data communications network, the dual redundant control uses a flexible design approach that is easily expandable to accommodate new functions and future engine and aircraft applications. Advanced on-board monitoring provides enhanced diagnostic capability for the entire engine system.

Since 2000, BAE Systems and Hispano-Suiza have jointly designed engine controls for the GE90-115B for the Boeing 777-300ER and the 777-200LR, CFM56-7, built by GE-Snecma joint venture CFM International for the Boeing Next-Generation 737, and the Engine Alliance GP7200, built by GE and Pratt & Whitney for the Airbus A380.

European consortium EuroProp International (EPI) is developing the TP400-D6. EPI is a joint-venture company consisting of Rolls-Royce, Snecma, MTU Aero Engines, and Industria de Turbo Propulsores.

About BAE Systems:

BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery, and support of advanced defense and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea, and in space. The company designs, manufactures, and supports military aircraft, combat vehicles, surface ships, submarines, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years and is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defense systems. BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The company employs nearly 100,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately $25 billion through its wholly owned and joint-venture operations.

About Hispano-Suiza:

Hispano-Suiza, a SAFRAN Group company, is a leading company for the design, manufacture, and support of control systems, electronic control equipment, power transmission, power electronics, and actuators for both civil and military engines. Hispano-Suiza delivers complete solutions to drive power for engine aircraft systems and equipment tailored to exact needs of its clients. Hispano-Suiza has three facilities in France, all in greater Paris; one in Peterborough, Canada; and another in Sedziszow Poland.

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: aerospace propulsion, defense and security, aerospace equipment, and communications. It has 56,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues exceeding 10 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.