Back in 2007, Belfast-based defence contractor Thales faced a challenge. A leading global manufacturer of ground-to-ground, ground-to-air, and air-toair missiles, the business had won a contract to partner with Sweden's Saab Bofors Dynamics to produce shoulder-carried anti-tank 'NLAW' missiles for the British Army.
But two immediate problems posed themselves, explains Brian Abernethy, head of manufacturing at the company. First, the tender for the contract had been highly competitive, and margins were slim. Cost control, in short, would be critical. Second, the contract came with a traceability requirement in the shape of what were called ‘Ammunition data cards’ —…
This content is for subscribers only. Subscribe now for free to read the full article.
Already a subscriber? Login
