In 2023, the RAF bid farewell to the C130 after over 50 years as the UK’s tactical air mobility asset. Stepping up to this role is the Airbus A400M ‘ATLAS’; a much more modern aircraft based upon Airbus A380 avionics. With such a generational evolution in aircraft design, the integrated airborne defensive aids sub system (DASS) is a step change in aircraft protection and survivability compared to the legacy C130 radar warning receiver (RWR). In terms of comparison, it’ll be like going from a Nokia 3410 to the latest iPad in capability!
For the past four years, two of our personnel have been pivotal in the growth of strategic command’s A400M mission data programming team, drawing upon a combined 20 years’ experience across military and industry mission data projects across multiple platforms. This pedigree of experience has enabled the expedited growth of the mission data team through the development of a revolutionary modular training package, placing the required training at the required topic in line with operational commitments.
Concurrently, we continue to provide DASS operational and trial support to the wider air mobility force. Our knowledge and experience has been called upon by end users to develop their understanding and cross-functional collaboration in the optimisation of mission data products. Additionally, we also represent the UK MOD in the multi-national, industry led, continuous development of A400M platform protection systems through Europe’s organisation for joint armament cooperation (OCCAR). Our insight in these forums ensures that the technical aspects of UK DASS mission data systems align to the needs and requirements of the UK MOD throughout the evolutionary development cycle, with direct involvement with Airbus and international counterparts.
Within the past year, Inzpire’s footprint within the A400M mission data team has doubled through Project Societas. This has proved to be the perfect test for the training package, given that our colleagues have come from outside of the typical trade boundary utilised by the MOD within the electronic warfare specialisation. The Inzpire-led training and mentorship has thrusted our new colleagues to an operational level in a shorter timeframe compared to legacy methodology, meaning that Inzpire now holds additional key specialist roles within the mission data team. Additionally, within the next year, we will become the core experience of the mission data team as military personnel naturally promote.
Always remaining available to recognise areas for improvement across the Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Centre (JEWOSC) in line with the directive, we are currently spearheading topics which should see the enhancement of A400M DASS effectiveness, and as a secondary result, allow for enhanced programming for other platforms.
The combination of Inzpire-led growth, development and collaboration within the A400M DASS mission data arena is continuing to be a key enabler in the A400M’s capability to operate beyond the strategic level, into the heavily congested electromagnetic threat zone within the tactical level.
"The team’s deep expertise in DASS and RWR systems has been instrumental in developing and delivering a robust, enduing and tailored training package to meet our operational requirements. Although their primary remit has been to design a comprehensive DSAT-compliant training course, Ciaran and Lloyd have consistently exceeded expectations.
"They have also played a pivotal role in enabling JEWOSC’s first in-situ trials support. From initial concept to final delivery, they provided critical guidance, sourced relevant documentation and secured the necessary authorisations to operate the deployable workstation (DWS) from a remote location."
"The Inzpire team has been a cornerstone of success, enabling through-life capability delivery while fostering engagement with stakeholders at all levels. Their professionalism, technical acumen and proactive approach has significantly enhanced the team’s output and reputation. Their contributions have been invaluable; I would strongly endorse their involvement in any future projects requiring a similar level of commitment and technical engagement.”
