NATO Quality Assurance Standard
AQAP 2110: The Gold Standard for Quality in the Defense Industry
Request a ConsultationThe Essence and Strategic Importance of AQAP 2110
AQAP 2110 (Allied Quality Assurance Publication) is a specialized NATO standard that defines the stringent requirements for the Quality Management System (QMS) of suppliers in the defense sector. It is not just a recommendation but a mandatory condition for any company aiming to be a reliable partner and supplier of products or services to the armies of Alliance member countries, including the Bulgarian Army.
At its core, the standard builds upon and extends the internationally recognized ISO 9001. While ISO 9001 sets the universal framework for quality management, AQAP 2110 adds specific, stricter requirements that reflect the critical nature of defense products. It moves beyond a generalist approach to focus on defense-sector needs: risk management, configuration management, and product assurance. For more details, you can visit the official NATO Standardization Office.
Who is AQAP 2110 For?
The standard is key for a wide range of organizations across the entire defense supply chain and related industries.
Manufacturers
Companies producing military equipment, components, munitions, specialized vehicles, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Technology & Software
Developers of command and control (C2) systems, communication equipment, cryptography, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and cybersecurity solutions.
Maintenance & Repair (MRO)
Firms performing maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) of military vehicles, aviation systems, and weaponry.
Service Providers
Organizations providing logistics, transportation, training simulations, and other critical outsourced services for military operations.
Key Requirements AQAP Adds to ISO 9001
Quality Plan
A detailed Quality Plan is required for each specific contract. This document describes how the QMS processes will be applied to the project, what resources will be used, and how control will be exercised.
Configuration Management
A strict process for identifying, controlling, and tracking all changes to the product, documentation, and software is mandatory. This ensures all parties know the exact and current version of every element.
Enhanced Risk Management
The organization must apply specific methods to assess and mitigate risks related to military contract performance, product safety, and supply chain reliability, far exceeding the general requirements of ISO 9001.
Reliability & Maintainability
Requires proof that the product is not only functional but also reliable, easy to maintain (Maintainability), and will perform its functions flawlessly in harsh field conditions throughout its lifecycle.
Traceability & Authenticity
Mandates rigorous traceability for all components and materials. This includes processes to prevent, detect, and remove counterfeit parts from the supply chain, a critical risk in the defense industry.
Government Quality Assurance
The standard requires the supplier to provide access for Government Quality Assurance Representatives (GQAR) to perform verification activities at the supplier’s facilities, ensuring contractual compliance.
Implementation and Certification Process
The path to AQAP 2110 certification is structured and requires the full commitment of the organization. It can be divided into several main stages that ensure sustainability and real process improvement.
Step 1: Gap Analysis
A detailed review of the existing management system against the requirements of AQAP 2110 is performed. Non-conformities are identified, and an action plan is developed to address them.
Step 2: Documentation
Development or updating of necessary documentation – Quality Manual, procedures, instructions, quality plans, configuration management plans, and risk assessments.
Step 3: Implementation & Training
Introduction of the new or modified processes into the organization’s daily operations. Staff training on working according to the new requirements and procedures.
Step 4: Internal Audit & Review
Conducting a full internal audit of the system to verify its effectiveness and compliance. Management reviews the results and makes decisions for improvements before the final audit.
A Partnership for Success in the Defense Industry
AQAP 2110 certification is a strategic investment that opens doors to international markets and establishes you as an elite partner. It is objective proof of your commitment to uncompromised quality and reliability.
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Market Access: Participate in tenders from NATO and Ministries of Defence.
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Competitive Advantage: Stand out as a reliable and serious partner against the competition.
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Increased Trust: Build long-term partnerships based on proven capabilities.
Take the Next Step
Our team of experts will develop a customized roadmap for implementing AQAP 2110 in your organization. Let’s discuss your goals and accelerate your certification process.
Request an Expert ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
No, it does not replace it. AQAP 2110 is a supplementary standard that incorporates all ISO 9001 requirements and adds specific NATO requirements on top. To be certified for AQAP 2110, your system must first fully comply with ISO 9001, which serves as its foundation.
In the Republic of Bulgaria, certification for AQAP standards is carried out by the ‘Armaments Policy’ Directorate at the Ministry of Defence, following a successful compliance audit. The process is state-regulated and differs from civil certification performed by private bodies.
The duration strongly depends on the current state and maturity of your management system. If you already have a well-functioning and documented ISO 9001 system, the upgrade process can take between 3 and 6 months. If starting from scratch, it can take significantly longer.
AQAP 2110 is the standard for quality assurance in design, development, and production. AQAP 2210 is specific to software products and supplements AQAP 2110 with software quality requirements. AQAP 2310 is for aviation, space, and defense suppliers and incorporates the requirements of the AS9100 standard.
GQA is the process by which the customer (the government or NATO) verifies that the supplier’s quality system and contractual requirements are being met. AQAP 2110 requires the supplier to provide access for a Government Quality Assurance Representative (GQAR) to perform these verification activities.
Yes. Many non-NATO countries have adopted AQAP standards, or similar national versions, for their own defense procurement. Furthermore, being AQAP certified makes a company a more attractive subcontractor for prime contractors in NATO countries, even if their own country is not a member.