A hybrid electric engine control module (ECU) configured to be operatively connected to a hybrid electric aircraft powerplant having a heat engine system and an electric motor system to control a torque output from each of the heat engine system and the electric motor system, the ECU being configured to determine whether the electric motor system and/or the heat engine system are in a normal mode such that the electric motor system and/or the heat engine can provide a predetermined amount of torque (e.g., full power). The ECU can be configured to receive a total torque setting and split output power between the electric motor system and the heat engine system in accordance with the normal mode as a function of the total torque setting. The ECU can be configured to detect and command recharging or regenerating of the battery system in some flight conditions.