MASA clinches further SWORD contracts, integrates with SitaWare

A screenshot of course of action analysis in MASA's SWORD constructive simulation software, showing probable casualty rates and ammunition expenditure over time and equipment status resulting from a particular plan. (MASA)

MASA has recently been awarded several contracts to supply its SWORD command and staff training (CAST) constructive simulation, Janes has learnt.

The most recent contract, worth “more than” EUR1 million (USD1.05 million), is with the Armed Forces of Côte d'Ivoire to supply a system capable of providing training up to brigade headquarters level. Marc de Fritsch, MASA managing director, told Janes that this “is a very important contract for us as it is the first large system we have supplied to this part of the world, and has been a straightforward commercial agreement; the French government has not been involved”.

The system will be installed at a training centre near Yamoussoukro. Although most exercises are likely to be conducted at the level of battalion and below, brigade-level exercises will be possible, de Fritsch said. Delivery will commence before the end of 2022, the first exercise will take place in mid-2023, and the system will be fully operational by the end of that year, he added.

In September, Slovakia awarded MASA a contract worth EUR200,000 for a battalion-level system. The Brazilian Army has also renewed its existing contract with MASA for SWORD for a further five years. The contract is worth EUR1.5 million, and de Fritsch said that Brazil hopes to expand its existing capability if possible.