737 MAX will optimize aerodynamics with BAE Systems' electronics

The Boeing Company has selected BAE Systems to provide the spoiler control electronics for the new Boeing 737 MAX. The successful outcome of this competitive procurement was largely driven by the BAE Systems team's ability to demonstrate a system that showed technical readiness and reduced development risk when introduced on the Boeing 737 MAX.

“The reliability and cost effectiveness of our spoiler control design reflects BAE Systems' successful history of flight controls,” said Dr. Ehtisham Siddiqui, vice president and general manager of Commercial Aircraft Solutions at BAE Systems. “Our spoiler control electronics will help Boeing achieve its goal of improving the handling characteristics for the world's most advanced single-aisle plane, the 737 MAX.”

BAE Systems' relationship with Boeing has evolved over the last six decades, from developing the first weapon control for the F-4 jet fighter to providing avionics and control subsystems for commercial and military Boeing airplanes. A recipient of Boeing's 2011 Supplier of the Year Pathfinder Award, the company provides a large range of products on Boeing airplanes and General Electric engines.

“Boeing appreciates BAE Systems' commitment to the Partnering for Success program, and their focus on reducing cost to meet program objectives,” said Kent Fisher, vice president of Supplier Management at Boeing. “BAE Systems' proposal was an aggressive approach toward making the 737 MAX successful. We look forward to collaborating with them on this and future opportunities.”

The 737 MAX is a new-engine variant of the world's best-selling airplane, building on the strengths of the Next-Generation 737 with advancements in fuel-efficiency and environmental performance. Equipped with the new LEAP-1B engines from CFM International and improvements such as the Advanced Technology winglet, the 737 MAX reduces fuel burn and CO2 emissions by 13 percent and maintains the 8 percent operating cost advantage over the future competition. Currently, more than 1,300 orders have been placed for the airplane.