BAE Systems has signed a teaming agreement with the Riyadh-based Advanced Electronics Company (AEC) to develop and deliver a Secure Deployed Network (SDN) capability for customers in Saudi Arabia and across the Gulf Region.Using technologies developed for the Falcon tactical communication system, which is in service with the British Army and Royal Air Force, the two companies will work together to meet the secure communication needs of military forces and civil agencies. The BAE Systems SDN capability ensures the provision of secure, reliable, flexible, high capacity voice, video and data communications in the most demanding environments. Under the agreement, AEC will customise design, procure, build and test SDN equipment to meet future tactical secure communications requirements in Saudi Arabia and beyond, providing a firm base in the region to support the equipment through-life, whilst BAE Systems will retain the role of overall SDN Technical Authority. AEC’s President and CEO, Dr Shibl said: “Our partnership with BAE Systems is part of our drive to further develop the capabilities and technologies already established in Saudi Arabia to allow us to offer an efficient and cost-effective service to both existing and future customers.” Paul Burke, Defence Information Director, at BAE Systems, added: “A modern force or agency needs an effective command and control infrastructure, providing secure communications with all elements under its command, and any potential coalition partners. The combined capabilities of BAE Systems and AEC will ensure customers can quickly and easily cut through the huge volumes of complex information, to spot and share what is impor.tant and then act accordingly.”