Systems Engineering

Mission driven, not product driven

System Engineering (SE) approaches development and integration in a structured way, in order to obtain appropriate engineering solutions. It originates in the defence environment where the complexity of high-tech systems demands a rigorous approach and strict adherence to specifications.

Important outputs of the SE process include the specification of systems architecture (characteristics and functions), interfaces between various subsystems, and the interface between the system and its operational environment. Aspects such as maintainability, reliability, ergonomics, life cycle costs and other engineering specialties are addressed simultaneously.

The SE process follows a top-down path during specification and the reverse for system qualification. This ensures technical integrity of a system during its projected life cycle. AG applies SE principles during the development of in-house products and has gained several years’ experience as systems consultants in the development of aircraft weapon systems.

AG applies the MIL-STD 499 approach:

  • User requirement analysis
  • Development of system concepts within criteria and constraints
  • Definition of the proposed system functions
  • Allocation of main system characteristics
  • System design
  • System test & evaluation
  • Design qualification
  • Production, and production qualification
  • Operational and logistic support (after-sales support)
  • De-commissioning plans after expiry of the system life time


AG does intelligent, turnkey engineering. We apply a comprehensive engineering management approach, tailored and applied to any size or complexity of project.

Bomb System Integration

For over thirteen years, we have had the systems engineering responsibility during development and qualification of 12 different Mk80-series bomb systems, integrating these systems onto aircraft used by the South African Air Force, such as the now phased out Mirage F1 and Cheetah C and D models. More lately certification datapacks were compiled for integration of the current Low Drag Bomb Systems onto the newly acquired Saab Gripen and BAE Hawk aircraft.

Missile System Integration

Our track record also includes systems engineering on the integration of the Mokopa missile onto the Rooivalk Combat Support Helicopter. This culminated in the 100% successful guided launch of missiles during test-firing in December 2000. Our involvement included comprehensive modelling and simulation of the system performance for specification and testing purposes.

Certification Standard

We also wrote the certification process for integrating weapons onto aircraft for the SA Air Force’s acquisition of BAe Systems Hawk trainers and Saab Gripen aircraft, which will become a standard for other acquisition programmes.


Epsilon applies the concept of system engineering into all its product ranges and services. This ensures that final output conforms to the user requirements in all aspects of form, fit and function. This may lead to combining the principles of mechanical- and electrical/electronic engineering with composites technology to provide the client with a product unique to his requirements.