BAE Systems and NEC Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at supporting the Japanese Government’s implementation of active cyber defence (ACD) solutions, according to a statement issued on June 17.
The agreement sets out an intention to jointly develop, implement and deliver ACD capabilities to help strengthen Japan’s cybersecurity posture. The companies said the work is intended to draw on BAE Systems’ experience in ACD practices and NEC’s knowledge of Japan’s ACD policy and operational environment.
The MoU also references activity beyond defence, with the companies linking the collaboration to the Japan-UK Strategic Cyber Partnership announced by the two governments in January 2026.
Under the arrangement, the two organisations said they will explore establishing a business collaboration framework to bring together stakeholders from the cybersecurity and national security sectors in the UK and Japan. The stated goal is to contribute to broader cyber resilience and support the development of cyber skills in both countries.
Andrea Thompson, Group Managing Director, BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, said: “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. Working together with NEC, we will turn our respective expertise into practical, operational capability in pursuit of a fair, safe and secure cyberspace.”
Noboru Nakatani, Corporate Executive Vice President and Chief Security Officer, NEC Corporation, said: “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.”
