BAE Systems and NEC Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at integrating their respective expertise to implement Active Cyber Defence (ACD) solutions for the Japanese government. The MoU indicates that the two organizations intend to collaborate across multiple industries beyond the defense sector, building on the momentum generated by the Japan-UK Strategic Cyber Partnership established between the two governments in January 2026.

Under this memorandum, BAE Systems and NEC will collaborate to develop, implement, and deliver ACD solutions, enhancing Japan’s government cybersecurity posture. This initiative combines BAE Systems’ extensive expertise in ACD best practices with NEC’s technical capabilities, deployment experience, and deep understanding of Japan’s ACD policies and operational environment. By integrating complementary strengths, the two organizations aim to deliver capabilities that are both practically applicable, technically robust, and aligned with national security priorities.

In addition, BAE Systems and NEC will explore the establishment of a business collaboration framework, which focuses on bringing together industry stakeholders from the cybersecurity and national security sectors in the UK and Japan to jointly promote collective cyber resilience. This initiative is expected to support the growth of high-skilled cyber industries in both countries.

Andrea Thompson, Group Director and General Manager of the Digital Intelligence Division at BAE Systems, stated: “As a long-standing provider of cyber and digital capabilities to global government agencies, we deeply understand the importance of leveraging top-tier expertise to meet customer needs and align with their operational environments. Through this collaboration with NEC, we will transform our respective expertise into actionable operational capabilities, committed to building a fair, secure, and resilient cyberspace.”

Noboru Nakatani, Executive Director and Chief Security Officer of NEC Corporation, stated: “Like many countries, we have witnessed a rising trend in cyberattacks targeting national institutions and critical infrastructure. This trend necessitates proactive countermeasures. Government agencies must be confident in their access to the highest-quality technology and operational expertise, which is precisely what our collaboration with BAE Systems can provide. We will support long-term cyber resilience through the implementation of ACD solutions.”