The X-RPU (Remote Piloting Unit) is a safety-critical command and control computer and I/O concentrator that enables reliable remote piloting for unmanned and optionally piloted aircraft systems. It serves as the interface between ground-based operators and the aircraft’s flight control and automation system, translating operator inputs into safe automated and/or real-time fly-by-wire operation.

With its high-performance x86 or ARM processing architecture, certified RTOS, onboard storage and an extensive range of configurable I/O interfaces, the X-RPU supports advanced flight control, certified multifunction displays, hard I/O integration, and containerised or partitioned third-party software applications. It was developed in accordance with RTCA DO-254 and DO-178 and meets a comprehensive set of DO-380G environmental specifications, making it certification-ready.

The X-RPU seamlessly integrates with S-PLANE’s X-Series and NX-Series flight and mission computers, forming part of a certifiable, modular, scalable, and comprehensive safety-critical flight control and automation architecture. This architecture includes carefully crafted system-wide redundancy, while maintaining optimal situational awareness, thereby ensuring uninterrupted and safe command and control for the most demanding applications.