NEC Corporation and BAE Systems have recently signed a MoU to combine expertise for the implementation of active cyber-defence (ACD) solutions for the Japanese Government.
According to an announcement published by NEC, the collaboration demonstrates the intent of both organisations to work together in various sectors beyond the defence domain.
It builds on the momentum of the Japan-UK Strategic Cyber Partnership agreed by the respective governments in January 2026.
NEC and BAE Systems collaboration
Under the MoU, BAE Systems and NEC are expected to support the enhancement of the Japanese government’s cybersecurity posture through the joint development, implementation and delivery of ACD solutions.
It brings together BAE Systems’ expertise and knowledge of ACD best practices with NEC’s technological capabilities, deployment experience and deep understanding of Japan’s ACD policy and operational landscape.
By combining complementary strengths, both organisations will aim to deliver capability that is said to be practically grounded, technically robust and aligned with national security priorities.
BAE Systems and NEC will also explore the establishment of a business collaboration framework focused on bringing together stakeholders from the cybersecurity and national security sectors of the UK and Japan to help drive collective cyber-resilience.
This is expected to support the growth of a highly skilled cybersecurity sector in both nations.
Supporting cyber-resilience
“As a longstanding provider of cyber and digital capabilities to government organisations around the world, we recognise the importance of leveraging best-in-class capabilities to meet customers’ needs and reflect their operational environment,” said Andrea Thompson, Group Managing Director, BAE Systems Digital Intelligence.
“Working together with NEC, we will turn our respective expertise into practical, operational capability in pursuit of a fair, safe and secure cyber-space.”
Noboru Nakatani, Corporate Executive Vice President and Chief Security Officer, NEC Corporation also commented: “Like many nations, we’ve seen a rise in cyber-attacks against national authorities and critical infrastructure.
“This is a trend which requires a proactive response.
“Government organisations need to know that they have access to the best possible technical and operational expertise, which is exactly what our cooperation with BAE Systems will deliver, enabling the implementation of ACD solutions to support long-term cyber-resilience.”