Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • MASS awarded Strategic Command JCAST contract extension

Defence

MASS awarded Strategic Command JCAST contract extension

Defence and training support company MASS has been awarded a two-year extension on the Joint Command and Staff Training (JCAST) contract for UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) Strategic Command.

Image courtesy MASS

Valued at more than £17.5 million, the contract extension will begin in July 2025 and coincide with MASS celebrating over 25 years delivering JCAST training support.

Through JCAST, MASS provides comprehensive training support for the Integrated Warfare Centre, part of Strategic Command, as well as other parts of the MoD. The training support package delivered by MASS provides a complete operational-level exercise design, preparation, delivery and analysis support capability. The contract also includes design and delivery of essential Pre-Employment Training for UK and international staff officers joining operational HQs, and a pan-Defence data management service.

Advertisement
ODU RT

The training ensures personnel are prepared for the full spectrum of potential deployments, ranging from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief responses to non-combatant evacuations and combat operations.

Keith Norton, Managing Director at MASS said: “Modern military operations no longer take place in isolation but within a dynamic human terrain where information—and disinformation—move rapidly across the internet and social media. Training must reflect this reality. By integrating the latest technology into our exercises, the JCAST contract will ensure personnel benefit from a ‘train as you will operate’ experience.

“We are proud of our longstanding relationship with UK Strategic Command and our ongoing efforts to evolve training in line with its requirements. The introduction of an advanced simulation system — offering a fully immersive, closed environment that mirrors the complexities of both civilian and military landscapes — will see personnel train in conditions that accurately reflect today’s evolving operational challenges.”

Advertisement
PTC rectangle

MASS has continually developed its training support offering by integrating improved methods using the latest synthetic environment technology underpinned by its unrivalled military, diplomatic and professional experience. This enables the company’s training audiences to prepare effectively for the rapidly evolving demands of the real-world operational environment.

Air Vice-Marshal Simon Strasdin CBE MA, Director Integrated Warfare Centre, Strategic Command, said: “MASS’ training solutions are constantly improving to meet the ever-changing needs of the UK MoD. The Integrated Warfare Centre is looking forward to continuing our partnership to deliver a fully immersive training experience and equip our team with the best preparation possible.”

Advertisement
General Atomics LB
NATO and Systematic to advance Land C2 training capabilities

Defence

NATO and Systematic to advance Land C2 training capabilities

30 January 2026

As part of the ongoing DEMETER Project, a new contract has been signed between NATO and Systematic to advance the delivery of both classroom and computer-based learning, ensuring seamless continuation and adaptation of current and future Land C2 training, while also securing the Alliance’s ability to provide learning throughout the capability ...

Cranfield recognised with Gold Employer Recognition Award

Aerospace Defence

Cranfield recognised with Gold Employer Recognition Award

30 January 2026

Cranfield University has successfully revalidated its prestigious Gold Employer Recognition Scheme status, awarded by the Ministry of Defence to organisations that support the Armed Forces community and share the values in the Armed Forces Covenant.

Typhoon reaches one million flying hours

Defence

Typhoon reaches one million flying hours

30 January 2026

The Typhoon combat aircraft programme has reached a historic milestone, passing one million flying hours – a landmark moment that comes at a critical time for national and European security.

Funding of £20m set to find Britain’s next defence unicorn

Aerospace Defence Security Space Events

Funding of £20m set to find Britain’s next defence unicorn

29 January 2026

The search for the UK’s next defence unicorn has kicked off with the launch of a bespoke £20 million fund to offer accelerated contracts to small, innovative British startups who have had limited or no business with the Ministry of Defence.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle
Metis launches Skyperion Lightweight

Aerospace Defence Security

Metis launches Skyperion Lightweight

29 January 2026

Lincoln based specialists in Radio Frequency (RF) and drone detection technologies, Metis, have launched their latest detection product, Skyperion Lightweight.

Data Link Solutions awarded US Navy contract to deliver MIDS JTRS

Defence

Data Link Solutions awarded US Navy contract to deliver MIDS JTRS

29 January 2026

The US Navy has awarded Data Link Solutions - a joint venture between BAE Systems and RTX's Collins Aerospace - a $248 million production contract to deliver hundreds of Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS) terminals for US forces and allies.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB