Is It Possible to Upgrade an Original English Electric/BAC Lightning with Modern Avionics?

One might wonder if the iconic English Electric/BAC Lightning could benefit from a modern avionics upgrade. This article explores the feasibility and challenges of integrating advanced avionics systems, such as those found in the latest F-35 Lightning II, into a legacy English Electric/BAC Lightning aircraft.

Introduction

The English Electric/BAC Lightning is a remarkable piece of aviation history. It is renowned for its speed, maneuverability, and impressive range. However, as technology advances, the need for modern avionics has become increasingly important. This article will delve into the practical aspects of upgrading such an aircraft with modern systems.

Modern Avionics vs Legacy Aircraft

Modern avionics systems are designed to enhance situational awareness, navigation, and combat capabilities. They include advanced displays, data processing units, infrared search and track (IRST) systems, and electronic warfare systems. The question remains, can these cutting-edge systems be integrated into the original English Electric/BAC Lightning?

The Technical Constraints

Space Limitations: The first and most significant challenge is the limited space within the English Electric/BAC Lightning. Modern avionics systems are bulky and require extensive installation space. The original cockpit, electronic bays, and other critical areas do not provide enough room for such systems without significant modifications.

Weight and Power Considerations: Adding modern avionics would also come with additional weight, which could compromise the performance of the aircraft. In addition, the existing power systems may not be able to support the required runtime and performance of these advanced systems.

The Physical Integration Challenges

Airframe Design: The physical design of the original Lightning aircraft is not optimized for advanced avionics. The aircraft's structure and original systems were created to handle a specific set of requirements. Introducing modern avionics would require extensive modifications to the airframe, electronics, and other systems.

Cabling and Connectivity: The current wiring and cabling systems may not be compatible with modern avionics. Ensuring a seamless integration would require extensive rewiring, reprogramming, and testing to guarantee reliable operation.

The Radar Integration Challenge

One of the most critical components in any modern fighter aircraft is the radar system. The original BAC Lightning had a radar system that, while advanced for its time, was not as sophisticated as those found in the F-35. The F-35's AN/APG-81 phased array radar is a significant leap forward in terms of detection range and accuracy. Integrating a similar system into the BAC Lightning would be extremely challenging due to space and power constraints.

Conclusion

While the idea of upgrading an English Electric/BAC Lightning with modern avionics seems appealing, the practical challenges and limitations make it nearly impossible. The space, weight, and power constraints, combined with the physical design differences, present insurmountable hurdles. Nevertheless, the concept serves as a fascinating thought experiment and highlights the rapid advancements in aircraft technology.

Additional Readings and Resources

For those interested in learning more about the English Electric/BAC Lightning and modern avionics, the following resources are recommended:

The English Electric BAC Lightning at Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II at Technical manuals and blueprints from the English Electric/BAC Lightning and F-35 Lightning II

These resources provide in-depth information on the historical and technical aspects of these aircraft, making them a valuable read for hobbyists and aviation enthusiasts alike.