Micro-sensors to be fitted on RAF aircraft
BAE Systems has secured contracts to install and assess micro-sensors on a number of the UK's Royal Air Force (RAF) aircraft.
BAE Systems have been awarded contracts of more than £5 million by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), with the work to be carried out from its sites in Filton, Bristol and Towcester, Northamptonshire.
The contracts will BAE Systems' scientists fit and assess corrosion sensors in hard-to-reach areas of Sentinel airborne battlefield and ground surveillance aircraft. These will inform maintenance teams when the jets need to be mechanically opened to check for corrosion preventing the need for areas such as avionics bays, to be opened for unnecessary checks thus saving time and money.
Dave Holmes, Manufacturing Operations Director, said: “The contracts underline the level of innovation, capability and talent we have within our Company and will help the UK remain at the forefront of military aircraft technological advancements. This work will not only save the RAF time and money by utilising the technology of our corrosion sensors, but also ensuring its aircraft utilises the best advanced materials available.”
The corrosion sensors developed and manufactured at the Filton site will also be used on the full global fleet of F-35 aircraft.