AFCS

Improve the performance of your helicopters

Autopilot, multifunction avionics platform, electromechanical actuation systems and inertial navigation, Safran Electronics & Defense enhance your helicopters.

From autopilot to ultra-compact multifunction avionics platform

Capitalizing on its expertise in APM autopilots and fly-by-wire flight control computers, Safran has designed an innovative multifunction avionics computer. Scalable and modular, UCAP concentrates many avionics functions in an ultra compact package: autopilot, Vehicle Management System (VMS), AHRS, advanced maintenance functions (health monitoring, usage & maintenance monitoring), sense & avoid...

Proven electromechanical actuation systems

Trim actuators, or parallel actuators, artificially reproduce the piloting forces for helicopters. They provide load compensation functions, offer precise force feedback and can be controlled in autopilot mode.

Compact and lightweight, SEMA series linear actuators allow very fast movements of low amplitude of the flight controls, thus improving helicopter stability.

Safe navigation

Safran Electronics & Defense integrates inertial sensors, APIRS heading and attitude unit or SkyNaute GNSS hybrid navigation unit to guarantee a high level of precision and reliability for optimal flight control in complete safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical lead time for gas turbine overhaul services?

The lead time for gas turbine overhaul services ranges from 6 to 14 weeks, depending on the damage assessment, parts availability, and whether hot-section repairs are required. Expedited options may reduce this by 30%.
Do you provide customizations for legacy turbine control systems?

Yes, we retrofit legacy systems (e.g., GE Frame 5, Siemens V94.2) with modern digital controllers, typically completing hardware integration within 4-8 weeks. Software migration requires additional validation time.
How often should industrial gas turbines undergo performance testing?

We recommend annual performance testing under ISO 3977-2 standards. Critical applications (e.g., offshore platforms) may require semi-annual tests with emissions compliance checks.
Are your radiation-hardened (rad-hard) semiconductors compliant with MIL-PRF-38535?

All rad-hard devices (e.g., FPGA, ADC) are QML Class V certified under MIL-PRF-38535 and tested to MIL-STD-883 Method 1019 for SEU tolerance. Full qualification reports are available upon request.
What temperature ranges do your military-grade ICs support?

Our ASICs and power management ICs operate across -55°C to +175°C ambient temperatures, with derating curves provided in military temperature range (MTR) datasheets.
Are PMA parts interchangeable with OEM components?

Our PMA parts (e.g., actuators, sensors) hold FAA/EASA Form 1 certification and match OEM form/fit/function. Installation requires SB/MB documentation per FAA AC 23.1529.
What traceability standards do you follow for aircraft fasteners?

All NAS/MS fasteners include full DNA traceability: melt source (AMS 2301), heat/lot numbers, and AS9100-compliant MTRs with ultrasonic test reports.
How do you handle urgent AOG (Aircraft on Ground) requests?

AOG orders ship within 4 hours for stocked items (FAA-PMA, EASA Part 21G). Non-stock critical parts trigger priority manufacturing with 72-hour max turnaround.