We examine three current HSR definitions maintaining function, improving function and achieving health system targets using real time data from South Sudan to develop a data driven understanding of resilience. We used 14 maternal, newborn and child health MNCH coverage indicators from household surveys in South Sudan collected at independence 2011 and following 2 years of protracted conflict 2015 , to construct a resilience index RI for 9 of the former 10 states and nationally. ...