Technical documentation for THE Defence industry
Operational capability depends on more than the right equipment
It also depends on having the right information. Autotech helps suppliers to the defence industry to plan, manage and produce technical documentation and materiel publications that enable equipment to be operated and maintained throught its entire life cycle.
Technical documentation is an integral part of every materiel delivery
Technical documentation is often regarded as something that can be produced once the design has been completed. In reality, it is an integral part of the overall system delivery and should be planned from the tendering and project planning stages.
Common challenges
- The scope of the documentation is underestimated.
- The design continues to evolve throughout the project.
- Technical documentation input is incomplete or inconsistent.
- Reviews and approvals need more time than expected.
- Documentation competes with other project deliverables with time and resources.
Planning the documentation from the tender stage helps ensure a successful delivery.
The right information enables operational capability
A materiel system does not deliver operational capability on its own.
To ensure that equipment can be operated safely, maintained efficiently and remain effective throughout its service life, the right information must be available to the right audience.
Technical documentation forms the link between engineering and end users. It transforms technical solutions into practical guidance, giving both operators and technical personnel the information they need to perform their tasks safely and effectively.
That is why we regard technical documentation as an integral part of every materiel delivery—and ultimately as a key contributor to operational capability.
We take the lead in documentation
Documentation evolves alongside the materiel. New functionality is introduced, requirements change, and information is generated across many different disciplines.
We plan, lead and produce the documentation in close collaboration with the project organisation, ensuring that the right content is developed at the right time. This reduces rework and contributes to a more efficient project delivery.
When required, we strengthen the project with specialist expertise in areas such as Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) and system safety.
We support you from tender to delivery
Tender support
We help estimate the scope of the documentation, plan the work and define the resources required for the tender.
Analysis of information needs
We identify the documentation required for the materiel and analyse the needs of the target audiences who will operate and maintain it.
Project management
We plan, coordinate and lead the documentation delivery, helping to keep the project on schedule.
Production
We produce user and maintenance documentation in accordance with customer requirements and applicable documentation standards.
Materiel publications
We produce instruction manuals (IBOK), operating instructions (BANV), repair manuals (RBOK), spare parts catalogues (RDK), technical orders (TO), materiel maintenance schedules (MVSCH), kit lists, lists of accessories and other required materiel publications.
Data registration
We support the registration and maintenance of master and logistics data (GoF) where required.
ILS and system safety
Through our partner network, we provide specialist expertise in Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) and system safety.
Training
We develop training material and deliver training that supports the safe introduction and use of the materiel.
Advisory services
With extensive experience of documentation deliveries for the defence industry, we support our customers throughout the project lifecycle, including reviews and key project milestones.
Why do defence suppliers choose Autotech?
We know that delivering to the defence sector involves far more than producing documentation. It requires an understanding of the materiel, the procurement requirements and the demands placed on a successful delivery.
More than 20 years of experience
For more than two decades, we have supported suppliers to the defence industry with technical documentation and materiel publications. We understand the requirements, the processes and the challenges that arise from tender to delivery.
An integrated part of your project team
We bring experienced project managers, proven ways of working and the structure needed to drive documentation projects efficiently. While you focus on the materiel, we ensure that the documentation delivery stays on track.
The right competence when you need it
We combine our in-house specialists in technical documentation, visualisation and learning with an established partner network covering areas such as Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) and system safety.
This gives you access to the expertise required for every stage of the project—without the need to coordinate multiple suppliers.
Insights from our experience
We share knowledge and practical insights on technical documentation and materiel publications – from procurement to delivery.
What does FMV mean by technical documentation?
Technical documentation is an integral part of a materiel delivery to FMV. It includes the information needed to operate, maintain and support the materiel safely and efficiently throughout its service life.
What are the main types of materiel publications in the Swedish defence sector?
Materiel publications support the operation, maintenance and through-life management of defence materiel. This article provides an overview of the main publication types used within the Swedish defence materiel system and their different purposes.
8 Common Pitfalls in Documentation Projects – and How to Avoid Them
Project delays and cost overruns are rarely caused by the documentation work itself. More often, they result from poor planning, inadequate source material or inefficient ways of working. Here are some of the most common pitfalls we encounter in documentation projects—and how to avoid them.
Planning a defence project or preparing a tender?
The earlier documentation is planned, the greater the chance of a successful delivery. Talk to our specialists about how we can support your project.