Decade of Support

Marking a Decade of Support

This year marks a decade of support for the Ministry of Defence’s helicopter ground support equipment. Since 2014, our team has calibrated and maintained the ATLAS TRDS laser alignment system, ensuring its accuracy and reliability. Used to align helicopter tail rotor drive shafts, the system remains a vital part of the MoD’s maintenance capability. After ten years in service, ATLAS continues to deliver dependable precision for front-line operations and maintenance teams alike.

Precision That Endures

Developed by CNR, the ATLAS TRDS system was designed specifically for helicopter tail rotor drive shaft alignment. Its laser-based technology replaced traditional optical tools, offering faster setup and more consistent results.

Each system uses bespoke aircraft brackets and alignment templates created for individual airframes. These fixtures allow engineers to capture precise measurements even in the confined spaces of a helicopter structure. The result is a reliable, repeatable process that improves both accuracy and efficiency.

A Decade of Calibration

For ten years, we have provided annual calibration and validation of every ATLAS TRDS system in MoD service. Each calibration checks that the laser, receiver, and software remain within their original design tolerances. Regular calibration not only keeps measurements accurate but also ensures traceability for quality and safety audits. Even after a decade of continuous use, the ATLAS systems still perform to their original specification — a clear reflection of their robust design and our ongoing technical support.

Supporting MoD Ground Equipment

The ATLAS TRDS is part of the MoD’s wider Ground Support Equipment (GSE) programme, used to maintain helicopter operational readiness. Accurate tail rotor shaft alignment is essential for reducing vibration, improving power transmission, and protecting key drivetrain components. By maintaining the calibration of this alignment equipment for over ten years, we’ve helped sustain the reliability and performance of vital aircraft systems — both in workshop maintenance and front-line operations.

Benefits of Precision Alignment

• Reliability: Sustained alignment accuracy ensures smoother operation and reduced component wear.
• Efficiency: Faster setup and measurement compared with mechanical or optical methods.
• Traceability: Digital data provides an auditable record of alignment integrity.
• Confidence: Consistent calibration builds assurance in measurement results.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate ten years of service, our focus remains on precision, reliability, and innovation. The success of ATLAS TRDS within MoD operations shows the lasting value of well-engineered equipment supported by consistent calibration. Looking forward, we aim to expand the ATLAS technology to new helicopter platforms and airframes, bringing the same trusted performance and measurement accuracy to the next generation of aircraft.