A NEWPORT communications company is set to create 180 jobs after getting a grant to build a new HQ.

Cogent Defence and Security Networks, part of global aerospace and defence company EADS Telecom, received a grant - understood to be £2 million - from the National Assembly to help it build the new headquarters at Cleppa Park, Newport.

Cogent currently operates out of the Queensway Mead-ows Industrial Estate, above, to the east of the city.

It is understood the company will operate from the two sites once its new HQ is built. Cogent supplies military, public safety and civil secure communications.

The company has recently had a series of major contract successes, including being selected as part of the Atlas Consortium bidding for the MoD's IT infrastructure contract. Cogent's expansion will be based on developing an important research and development centre as well as opening up new markets in the UK.

Len Tyler, managing director of Cogent Defence and Security Networks, said: "The Assembly grant enables us to invest further in people and facilities as part of our continued growth and expansion. This backing is testament to our success, and helps us to continue delivering high-value, sophisticated communications solutions."

Rhodri Morgan, Wales' First Minister, said Cogent has had many deserved successes and continues to prove to be an invaluable part of the business community in Wales. He said: "The Assembly is pleased to support the progress of local enterprises like Cogent to go on to even greater success, particularly as it provides such high quality employment and skills."