Defence and training support company MASS, part of the Cohort plc Group, has been awarded a two-year extension on the Joint Command and Staff Training (JCAST) contract for UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) Strategic Command.
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.
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.”
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.”
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Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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