Historical development

The origins of the S-Series can be traced back to joint working groups formed in response to NATO requirements established in 1993. This collaborative effort led to the development of the initial specifications.

The origins of the S-Series can be traced back to joint working groups formed in response to NATO requirements established in 1993. This collaborative effort led to the development of the initial specifications.

Key milestones include: 

2007: a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between ASD, AIA, and ATA/A4A established governance for the S1000D specification, focusing on technical publications. 

2010: an MOU between ASD and AIA formalized the joint development of the broader S-Series IPS specifications, which expanded the scope beyond just logistics support. 

2019: the term "Integrated Product Support" (IPS) was introduced to reflect the broader scope and holistic approach to product lifecycle management. The first collective block release of the S-Series specifications occurred in April 2021, enhancing integration and interoperability within the aerospace and defense sectors. 

The foundation for the S-Series IPS specifications was laid with two pivotal agreements: 

S1000D Council (2007)

  • The S1000D Council was established through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in 2007 between the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD), the Aerospace Industries Association of America, Inc. (AIA), and the Air Transport Association (ATA), d/b/a Airlines for America (A4A). 
  • This council oversees the governance, development, and maintenance of the S1000D specification, which standardizes technical publications using a Common Source Database (CSDB). The council ensures that S1000D continues to meet the evolving needs of the aerospace and defense industries. 

IPS Specification Council (2010) 

  • In July 2010, ASD and AIA signed a separate MOU to promote and develop a comprehensive suite of Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) specifications, which has since been rebranded as Integrated Product Support (IPS) specifications. 
  • The IPS Specification Council (IPS Spec Council) was formed to govern the development and maintenance of the remaining specifications within the S-Series suite, excluding those covered by the S1000D Council.