Government has approved the first phase of acquisition of the Improved Logistics Information System – JP 20772B. This phase will deliver the Military Integrated Logistics Information System which is the next generation of Defence’s key logistics information management system used to manage and track assets, and will provide a range of enhancements including improved financial management, advancements in mobile warehouse technologies, information technology controls and automated stocktaking.

Known as JP 2077 Phase 2B.1, this Military Integrated Logistics Information System project will close the highest priority capability gaps within the logistics information environment and will improve the information exchange between Defence’s logistics and finance information systems. It will also implement financial reporting capabilities that comply with the Australian Equivalent International Financial Reporting Systems Standards.

Valued at over $100 million, this phase will be a considerable investment in Australian software development and maintenance as well as offering significant Australian industry involvement in the areas of project management, change management, implementation support and training solutions. Under the project the prime contractor, Mincom, is enhancing the functionality of its 'Ellipse' product to produce a Military off the Shelf (MOTS) version.

Mincom, an Australian owned company based in Brisbane with a global presence, is the largest employer of software development staff, exporter of commercial software and investor in Software Research and Development within Australia’s Information Technology industry. A 24 month acquisition and implementation phase is scheduled to commence in September 2006 with ‘go live’ planned for the third quarter of 2008.

A subsequent linked phase yet to be considered by Government, JP2077 2B.2, is planned to provide flexible and enhanced operational support in the deployed environment (Australian Defence Force Deployable Logistics System) and an improved capability to track and manage inventory and assets while in-transit (Integrated In-Transit Visibility).

The resulting Military Integrated Logistics Information System environment will provide a technologically advanced logistics support system that is responsive and accessible, providing accurate and timely data to satisfy both operational and corporate needs within Defence.