AgustaWestland has selected Critical Software Technologies, a safety and mission-critical systems specialist, to work on a new mission planning system for its current Apache helicopter fleet and the upcoming AW159 Wildcat fleet.  Tasked with developing additional functionality for the system as well as managing overall systems integration, Critical’s software will be instrumental in ensuring missions are completed successfully.  Any malfunctions could potentially jeopardise crucial missions in the Apache fleet’s current deployment across the Middle East conflict zones.

Mike Cook, Procurement Manager at AgustaWestland comments, “Critical Software was chosen due to its successful track record in developing mission-critical software for high integrity systems, as well as its focus on quality and the ability to meet a very demanding schedule.  The AW159 Wildcat fleet will serve in battlefield utility, SAR and anti-surface warfare roles, so 100 per cent reliability is crucial.”

Brian Luff, chairman at Critical Software Technologies explains, “We are delighted to be working with AgustaWestland and its partners to help develop this important new system.   The best system in the world will not achieve its full potential if it is not operating efficiently at all times and is not dependable.  If a critical component fails, the system fails.  Our job is to help make this system the best it can be, minimising risk while optimising performance.”

The work on the new system will be carried out at Critical Software’s new Yeovil office in close collaboration with AgustaWestland, the MOD and other suppliers.