Collision Avoidance Technology Expands to F-16 Aircraft Published Feb. 1, 2013 By Brandie Woodard Aerospace Systems WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Through the Hybrid Technology (Hy-Tech) program, AFRL researchers have developed the Hybrid Flight Control Computer (HFLCC), which enables integration of digital cards into F-16 Analog Flight Control Computers. The HFLCC allows F-16s that are not equipped with digital flight control computers to incorporate this critical collision avoidance technology. The Hy-Tech program is a component of the highly successful Automatic Collision Avoidance Technology (ACAT) program, which seeks to eliminate air-to-ground and air-to-air collisions in fighter aircraft through a non-intrusive system that automatically maneuvers vehicles away from potential collision threats. The first component of ACAT, the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto GCAS), has already been transitioned for implementation into the F-16 fleet. Recently, AFRL achieved a major accomplishment in the Hy-Tech program, placing the HFLCC in the F-16 hardware-in-the-loop handling qualities simulator, and successfully executing nearly 100 Auto GCAS fly-up avoidance maneuvers. This performance was highly consistent with previous tests using digital F-16 flight control computers. These simulations help validate the HFLCC and confirm its viability for use in analog F-16 aircraft. If transitioned, the HFLCC would allow advanced automatic command capabilities to be implemented into more than 400 National Guard F-16s. AFRL will finalize the hardware design of the HFLCC, fabricating three units to support pre-flight test, safety of flight verification and validation testing. Successful completion of these test activities will enable the Hy-Tech program to transition to a flight test demonstration phase, clearing the way for transition to the F-16 Air National Guard fleet.