Cassidian CyberSecurity has signed an agreement to acquire 100% of Netasq, leading expert and pioneer in the IT security market.

Netasq employs a workforce of more than 120 people. Closing of the acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals for such type of transactions.

This acquisition represents a strategic step in establishing a European Centre of Competence dedicated to next-generation integrated security solutions.

Jean-Michel Orozco, General Manager, Sales and programs of Cassidian CyberSecurity, said: “We are delighted to enhance our portfolio with Netasq’s innovative and complementary technologies, which will allow us to break into new markets.”

François Lavaste, President of Netasq, added: “The signing of this agreement is excellent news for the Netasq teams, who are joining a group with international standing, providing them with access to new markets. It is also good for our customers and sales partners, who can pursue with confidence both Netasq’s technological innovation and its indirect sales strategy.”

Gathering all of EADS’ cyber security competences together, Cassidian CyberSecurity intends to establish itself as key player in the market for the security of government IT networks, critical infrastructures for strategic industries and, with the acquisition of Netasq, in the market for companies of all sizes.

Founded in 1998, Netasq is one of the leading companies in the field of IP network protection; its trusted solutions, which are EU and NATO certified (EAL4+), integrate intrusion prevention functionalities, firewalls, anti-virus and anti-spyware protection as well as anti-spam and content filtering.

With teams and technologies focused on innovation, Netasq will keep its operational autonomy and will continue to serve its clients, both in France and abroad. Cassidian CyberSecurity as a systems integrator will dispose of an even more comprehensive portfolio, mastering information systems security across the entire scope of its activities.

The integration of this service specializing in IP network security allows Cassidian CyberSecurity to complement its product and service portfolio, which rests on three pillars: The "Cyber Defense & Professional Services" pillar is focused on high-grade professional services and establishing operational security centers.

The second named "Trusted infrastructure" is aimed at developing trusted technologies (cryptography, digital identity management) and high-security national solutions, and the last "Secure Mobility", enables the supply of products and services for next-generation mobile device security (voice, data, applications).