Rogerstone-based TTems has announced it has entered into a strategic alliance with BAE Systems to become a supplier of choice for printed circuit board assembly supply. TTems will also be part of BAE Systems' Supply Chain Excellence Programme.

TTems, a subsidiary of global electronic manufacturing group TT electronics plc, has worked with BAE Systems since early 2003 when the company secured a contract to manufacture PCBAs used in Next Generation Light Anti Armour Weapon applications. Since then, the relationship has developed and TTems is now involved in production and development activities on a number of major US programmes.

BAE Systems and TTems will work closely together to understand the requirements of BAE Systems' customers and produce and supply PCBAs capable of meeting those needs.

Andrew Cox, general manager of TTems Rogerstone, said: "The agreement is a significant achievement and is testament to the relationship between the two companies. It is our aim to become involved at an earlier stage of bidding on new programmes with BAE Systems to help the company gain a competitive edge, and ultimately increase its market share, through design and early cost-down analysis.

"TTems is keen to continue working towards securing new contracts in the defence arena with leading names such as BAE Systems, and the DSEi show is the ideal arena in which to demonstrate our capabilities."