EADS Defence and Security Systems History

A Long tradition

EADS Defence and Security Systems Ltd was originally formed as Cogent Defence & Security Networks Ltd from the Defence Division of STC – Standard Telephone and Cables – a British company with a history stretching back well over a hundred years. With manufacturing facilities based in Newport, Greenwich, Harlow and Basildon, STC served military requirements for decades. As the major subcontractor, STC manufactured much of the Ptarmigan communication system for the British Army. Navies worldwide depended on STC for components in their communication, sonar and weapon systems. Research and development, not only at the manufacturing locations, but also in the world renowned laboratories in Harlow, was sponsored by the Ministry of Defence as UK technologies led the defence world.

Leading Communication Technologies

In 1991, Nortel Networks one of the world leaders in digital communications wholly purchased STC and developed the company into a modern, market focused business, exploiting the rapid growth in telecommunications. Nortel’s products encompassed the complete range of switching, routing and transmission technologies (including wireless), exploiting the convergence of voice and data traffic. This combined with Cogent’s own pre eminence in military communication security led to a unique offering.

As Cogent grew into a professional, added value company, it was able to access Nortel’s immense research and development programmes, delivering solutions to military requirements.

Up until 1st December 2001, Cogent Defence Systems operated as a subsidiary of Nortel Networks UK Ltd. The business was then transferred to EADS Telecom and subsequently to Cogent Defence and Security Networks Limited which had been set up as a UK based operating Division of EADS Telecom. Nortel Networks plc retained a 41% interest in EADS Telecom following the restructuring of EADS and Nortel Networks group interests.

The EADS Systems House in the UK

In 2003, EADS acquired all the equity in  Cogent Defence and Security Networks and restructured its defence interests.  Now known as EADS Defence and Security Systems Ltd, the Company is the Systems House for EADS in the UK. Headquartered in Newport, South Wales, with a growing reputation as the partner of choice in the defence and homeland security markets.

Today, we deliver tailored Lead Systems Integration solutions.  Our experts work in the areas of information systems and networks, integrated intelligence solutions, critical infrastructure protection, battlespace management systems, border control and surveillance, large event security, and global security.