The VF-22S entry (M7 UN mechanical sheet 5A) in Issue #24 does clarify what they're talking about. The BDI system assists the pilot with weapon systems, chaff decoys/flares, and other stuff during combat when high-Gs are required. So it's not really needed to fly the plane. It's darn helpful, but going back from what we knew, the VF-22 is still a manual-controlled plane.