SDL helps Aero Vodochody comply with S1000D documentation standard for next-generation military aircraft

SDL (LSE: SDL), a leader in global content management, translation and digital experience, today announces that Aero Vodochody has selected SDL Contenta Publishing Suite to manage the creation and publication of technical content and documentation for the L-39NG, its next generation military jet aircraft.

A new highly efficient trainer and light aircraft, Aero Vodochody's L-39NG is being manufactured with the latest technologies and systems available. Pre-production started in January, first flights are expected in late 2018 and customer deliveries expected by 2020. Each aircraft comes with a range of technical, operational and maintenance documentation – all of which needs to be created, published and comply with the S1000D standard, an international specification for the production of technical publications.

Aero Vodochody required a turn-key solution to support the introduction of the S1000D standard, both for software and hardware, but also highly tailored for its complex content environment and the L-39NG project. This includes initial training and follow on guidance for managing the entire content management process, from definition phase up to the formal delivery of the first L-39NG aircraft to a customer.

"We were looking for a comprehensive end-to-end solution to manage our content supply chain, and our aim was to find the right business partnerships to help deliver our most complex projects. Based on those requirements, we decided that SDL, and its partner Etteplan, could provide the best solution for our S1000D project," said Marco Venanzetti, Executive Vice President for the L-39NG program at Aero Vodochody. "We look forward to building on the relationship as we deploy and utilize the SDL Contenta Publishing Suite and adopt the S1000D specification."

SDL partner Etteplan will also provide S1000D consulting services and technical assistance for Aero Vodochody's ongoing deployment of SDL Contenta Publishing Suite.

"We're delighted to work closely with Aero Vodochody on such an innovative project. Companies like Aero Vodochody face tough standards when dealing with government organizations, and we're always looking for secure and simplified ways to help customers manage their complex projects," said Thomas Labarthe, Chief Revenue Officer, SDL. "We look forward to working with Aero Vodochody over the years, helping them to overcome the very unique content management challenges facing them and their industry."

The S1000D standard is maintained by the S1000D Steering Committee which includes members from Aerospace and Defense Industries Association of Europe (ASD), the United States' Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), the Air Transport Association (ATA), and industry and defense leaders from around the world. The solution also complies with the European Military Airworthiness Certification Criteria (EMACC) for data and publication requirements.