EADS Defence & Security and Cisco to Collaborate on Accelerating Development of Next-Generation Defence and Security Communications Networks

* EADS Defence & Security (DS) and Cisco will cooperate to bring to market network centric IP solutions for highly secure integrated communications across armed forces and civil defence.

* Memorandum of understanding underpins collaboration in defence and communications systems, C4I systems, battlefield mobility, homeland security, public safety and professional mobile radio.

LONDON.- Defence and Communications Systems, an integrated business unit of EADS DS, and Cisco announced today that they have entered into a memorandum of understanding to define areas of collaboration in the development and delivery of Internet Protocol (IP)-based networking solutions. The collaboration is planned to reach across research and development and go-to-market business activities internationally to deliver future technologies in defence and security.

Leaders in the fields of systems integration and highly secure communications, EADS DS and Cisco will work together to advance current IP-based communications networks to support more rapid and more secure information sharing, collaboration and situational awareness for frontline forces.

As military and civil protection forces depend increasingly on IP-based networks, the assurance of timely, highly secure and reliable communication - particularly in mission-critical situations - is both a growing priority and an increasing challenge. At the same time, new challenges come with the unprecedented diversity of roles required of the armed forces and the complexity of threats they face, which demands new capability for their IP communications. For example, it is essential that their networks allow communication between personnel in the air, on land and at sea, as well as with other national or international forces.

Senior representatives from the two companies signed the memorandum of understanding at the Defence Systems and Equipment International Exhibition (DSEi) 2007 on 13 September to confirm and launch the co-operative venture.

Hervé Guillou, CEO of Defence and Communications Systems said, “This is a progressive response to evolving key requirements in defence and security markets. We aim to utilise our respective technologies to make new solutions and Network Enabled Capability a reality earlier. The EADS DS / Cisco collaboration will provide customers with a unique level of expertise and knowledge, and the ability to deliver better products in a more timely and cost effective way.”

“Today, Internet Protocol networks are an essential part of business, education, government and home communications, and Cisco IP networking solutions are the foundation of these networks. Global defence organizations are increasingly moving to IP as an efficient means to transform the way military units, which are increasingly mobile and multinational, can seamlessly and securely exchange information with industry-leading security to improve decision making,” said Chris Dedicoat, president of European markets for Cisco. “Using the expertise of both our companies, this collaboration with EADS shows our commitment to developing innovative solutions for the defence industry.”

The memorandum of understanding builds on a history of successful teamwork between the two companies. EADS DS has worked with Cisco to adapt and customise its technologies and products for a range of high-profile projects. As early as 1995, EADS DS incorporated Cisco technology into a local data communications network for the UK’s Royal Air Force and both companies continue to work together successfully deploying solutions on the UK MoD’s Defence Information Infrastructure(F) Programme and on Skynet 5, EADS’ next generation military satellite communications programme.

EADS DS and Cisco will agree on the terms of reference for their work on a project-by-project basis. Both companies also retain the flexibility to work with other third parties.

Defence and Communications Systems is an integrated business unit of EADS Defence & Security (DS), a systems solutions provider combining military air systems, missile systems, communications and intelligence systems, global security solutions, sensor and avionics systems, as well as test and support solutions into a single effective network. In 2006, DS - with around 23,000 employees - achieved revenues of € 5.9 billion. EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2006, EADS generated revenues of € 39.4 billion and employs a workforce of about 116,000.