Abstract: A mobile platform comprising at least one mobile platform system that includes a processor, a structure, and an SHM system. The SHM system also includes a processor as well as a structural sensor. The SHM processor is separate from the mobile platform system processor. In other preferred embodiments, the mobile platform includes a flight control system, a maintenance information system, and an IVHM system. The SHM system may receive parameters from the flight control system and calculate loads therefrom. Alternatively, the sensor may be a structural load sensor, which the SHM processor uses along with the parameters, to calculate other structural loads. In still another preferred embodiment, a method is provided that includes separating SHM functions from a processor of a mobile platform system. The method also includes dedicating an SHM system to perform SHM functions and establishing communications between the SHM system and the mobile platform system.