Kirintec acquisition "will enhance electronic warfare" says BAE Systems

A U.K. start-up specialising in cyber and countermeasures warfare has been snapped up by defence giant BAE Systems.

The multinational defence contractor has acquired Kirintec, which has expertise in cyber and electromagnetic activities (CEMA), including developing and producing electronic warfare products to defend against Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).

The firm’s battle-proven tech helps defend platforms and personnel from cyber and electromagnetic attacks. It employs roughly 50 people at its Herefordshire base.

Kirintec is set to become part of BAE Systems’ Digital Intelligence business, whose group managing director Andrea Thompson commented: “The nature of warfare is changing for our military customers and adversaries are increasingly using offensive and defensive cyber and electronic warfare capabilities so Kirintec is a welcome addition to our business.

“Together, our complementary capabilities will help our armed forces secure electromagnetic spectrum dominance and conduct operations with a reduced risk of casualties or operational setbacks.”

CEO of Kirintec Nick Watts said: “We are delighted to join BAE Systems and combine our heritage in CEMA with BAE Systems' global pedigree in delivering multi-domain solutions.”

• You can read more about the acquisition on the BAE Systems website