Systems and engineering consultancy Frazer-Nash has been awarded an extended contract by the UK MoD to provide independent safety audit and advice for the Merlin Capability Sustainment Plus (MCSP) programme.

The MCSP programme is a multiyear project to reduce the through life cost of ownership of the Merlin helicopter, principally through a major upgrade of the mission and avionic systems.  This will address obsolescence issues with the introduction of open systems computer architecture, as well as enhancing performance.   

Over a three year period, Frazer-Nash will be continuing its role providing independent safety audit of the MCSP programme to ensure its compliance with standard defence safety requirements. The first upgraded aircraft is due for delivery from prime contractor Lockheed Martin and its key subcontractor AgustaWestland in 2012.

Commenting on the contract, Martin Soltau, Business Manager at Frazer-Nash said:
“A key factor in reducing through life costs is the use of civil certified products within a military operational environment, and this presents challenges to the safety programme. We have been working pragmatically with the Merlin IPT, Lockheed Martin and AgustaWestland for five years to ensure that the MCSP meets appropriate safety standards.

“I am very pleased that that we have been granted this contract extension for a further three years as it is testament to our hard work and expertise in safety requirements and acceptance processes.”