Packaging & Materials

Packaging for Military & Defence: MPAS Accredited  

By
Steve Chandler
on
April 3, 2025

Protective packaging plays a vital role in Military, Defence and Security industries.  It is essential that equipment arrives in theatre safely and fully functional.  

With custom-foam, protective hard cases and Peli-Hardigg containers, we offer a tailored solution for all requirements ensuring high standards in effective protection.  

 

Why MSA Foams Ltd?  

MSA Foams is ISO9001 and ISO14001 registered and MPAS accredited. Our full customisation service includes in-house military level packaging which is designed to DefStan 81-41.  Our MPAS approved designers liaise with MOD and can create full SPIS documentation. If required, MSA can assist with third-party testing to confirm the level of compliance.

You can trust MSA Foams to deliver protective packaging solutions that offer unrivalled protection, full compliance, and total peace of mind.  

What is MPAS?  

To ensure ‘Military-Level’ protection is met, the packaging materials used must meet strict standards set by the Military Packager Accreditation Scheme (MPAS).    

MPAS is a widely recognised accreditation scheme that sets the benchmark for UK military packaging standards. Our accreditation to the UK Ministry of Defence MPAS (Military Packager Accreditation Scheme) grants us the authority to approve military packaging designs and SPIS (Services Packaging Instruction Sheet) on behalf of the UK MoD.  

MSA is also part of the MoD PEAS (Packaging in Equipment Acquisition & Support) community.  Regular meetings, with other members of the MPAS group, are held to discuss current agendas, driving to open communication amongst the teams and share ideas for continuous improvement.  

By utilising packaging designed to military levels*, organisations can be confident that products and equipment arrive at their destination safely and in optimal condition by all modes of transport (Land / Sea / Air etc). This remains true even in the most challenging environments and after being stored for extended periods of time.  

*Driven by the MPL (Military packaging Level) required (P, N, J or H)  

 

Custom-Foam Uses in Defence  

Protective packaging solutions are engineered for a wide variety of military and defence applications, including:  

  • UAVs & Drones – Precision cut inserts for premium protection  
  • Weapons & Firearms – Secure, waterproof storage ensures items arrive fully operational after transit and no need to re-zero.  

  • NVGs  – (Night-Vision Goggles) – Custom engineered foam combined with a Peli case provides shock protection and prevents moisture ingress    
  • Communication Devices – Offers premium protection for electronics  
  • Tool Control – Dual colour foam aids a visual check for stock management  

  • Any Electronic and Mechanical Components/Parts - Custom solutions for protective storage  

(Note: MPAS does not cover any types of live munitions or explosives)

Benefits of custom foam & MPAS packaging  

From 3D-Scanning to precision CNC routing or 5 Axis Waterjet cutting, our range of technology and machinery allows us to offer benefits such as:  

  • Impact & Shock Absorption – Packaging solutions that reduce damage risk  
  • Protection from Environmental Exposure – Critical defence against dust, moisture, and extreme conditions  
  • Military-Grade Durability – Built to perform, trusted to protect  
  • Streamlined Logistics – Maintain order in any environment  
  • Creation and supply required - Standard labelling for MPLs  

Custom foam inserts manufactured by MSA are highly durable and are tailored specifically for defence applications, using only Military approved materials to enclose all items, including equipment such as weapons and ancillary items, for maximum protection.  

CAD is used to ensure space is optimised, often allowing us to work with customer CAD, as many physical MoD items are sensitive or classified.  We can then amalgamate items into one case or container that were previously in several different storage systems.  Reducing the size or quantity of the case(s) also reduces logistics costs.  

Many projects require weight restrictions, and our CAD systems allow us to quickly assess CofG and Mass to offer the best design solutions. The bespoke insert holds the contents securely while specialised foams minimise the risk of damage during transit.  

Military-Grade Protection You Can Rely On  

At MSA Foams Ltd, we deliver premium protective packaging you can trust. Our in-house design team ensures full MOD compliance while offering custom solutions. From concept to completion, we work tirelessly to deliver military-grade protection - on time and on spec.