UK defence and training support company MASS, part of the Cohort Group, has been awarded a two-year extension to its Joint Command and Staff Training (JCAST) contract for the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MoD’s) Strategic Command, the company announced on 10 March 2025.
Valued at more than GBP 17.5 million (EUR 20.8 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 Strategic Command’s Integrated Warfare Centre in Northwood, northwest London, 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, as well as a pan-defence data management service.
The JCAST training ensures personnel are prepared for the full spectrum of potential deployments, ranging from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) responses to non-combatant evacuations and combat operations.
Keith Norton, managing director at MASS said, was quoted in a company press release as saying, “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,” Norton added. “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.”
Air Vice-Marshal Simon Strasdin, Director of the Integrated Warfare Centre, 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.”
