Performance Improvement in the Public Sector
The Helios Watchlisting Service transformed a core element of the UK’s border security capability and now supports more than 130 million journeys into the country every year. Designed and delivered by BAE Systems Digital Intelligence in partnership with the Home Office, Helios maintained uninterrupted border operations throughout replacing the legacy system. The result is a secure, resilient platform that strengthens national security while delivering a smoother and more reliable passenger experience.
Launched in Autumn 2024, the Helios service transformed a core element of the UK’s border security capability and is now relied on for the more than 130 million journeys into the UK each year. Designed and delivered by BAE Systems Digital Intelligence in partnership with a number of suppliers, the Home Office and Border Force, Helios replaced a legacy system first introduced in 1995.
As passenger volumes grew and threats evolved, the legacy system became increasingly difficult to maintain and adapt. It was costly, fragile and unable to support the Home Office’s ambition for a modern and secure border. Replacing it was particularly challenging because the system had to remain fully operational until the moment Helios went live. Any failure would have had an immediate impact on border operations.
A specialist team drawn from engineering, business and consulting disciplines planned and rehearsed a 14-hour cutover operation. This was structured around clear business decision points, supported by multiple contingency and rollback options, so that operational leaders retained full control throughout the launch.
Since launch, Helios has improved passenger flow, reduced unnecessary delays for tens of thousands of passengers each year, strengthened security, and provided stability.
Helios is now shared across the Home Office and HM Government as an example of best practice for delivering complex digital change at national scale.
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