19 Dec 02. BAE SYSTEMS-IFS has signed a contract for delivery of IFS Applications and implementation services valued at £10m. BAE SYSTEMS-IFS is a subcontractor to General Dynamics UK for the BOWMAN Logistics Information System (BLIS) for the British Army.

The BOWMAN program will replace the Clansman Combat Net Radio (CNR) with a secure voice and data service. BOWMAN will provide battlefield communications for those elements of all three UK Armed Services that take part in, or provide direct support to, land operations. It is the primary means of command and control below brigade level in the land battle and will be installed into all operational platforms.

BAE SYSTEMS-IFS’ BLIS system includes asset tracking, configuration management, maintenance, reordering and the gathering of usage information. The system covers the organization of front line repairs, which are often carried out in or near the field of operations, industrial repairs and the subsequent return to the field operations.

BAE SYSTEMS-IFS’ innovative design for BLIS ensures that the user has the benefit of an intuitive user interface with the minimum level of complexity required to conduct the functional operational requirements of the BLIS Business Process. The system architecture reduces the reliance on bandwidth by ensuring that BLIS is able to operate in a fractured communications environment whilst minimizing the need for complex database replication across the Bowman network. The system can be independently operated using technology and devices for mobile deployment.

Initial implementation of the BLIS started in September 2001 when BAE SYSTEMS-IFS was selected as preferred supplier by General Dynamics UK Ltd.