SBL, the Enterprise level Value Added Reseller & Information Assurance Specialist has been awarded a £30m contract with the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The Joint Asset Management and Engineering Solutions (JAMES) contract will see SBL work in partnership with Getac, the rugged computer technology designer and manufacturer. The five year deal will include the supply of encrypted rugged hardware, software, licenses and the delivery of a service level agreement – all designed and accredited to meet stringent military security measures.
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Software Box Ltd has been awarded a £30m contract with the Ministry of Defence, which will include the supply of 12,500 Getac rugged Tablet PCs for use by front line commands.[/caption]
The contract will include the supply of 12,500 Getac rugged Tablet PCs for use by front line commands. Featuring the CAPS approved PGP HMG encryption product, the system has been rigorously tested to perform to the highest standard in military environments and will enable access to asset management and secure facilities whilst on the move.
The dedicated SBL JAMES helpdesk, offering a support team and access to around the clock assistance will also be implemented; complementing the in-house installation, configuration and maintenance that will be delivered through SBL.
Deborah Gardner, MoD Business Development Director at SBL, said:
“SBL and Getac’s combined expertise in Information Assurance and rugged hardware means that this unrivalled partnership can guarantee results for the MoD, even in the most hostile environments. This contract is a great endorsement of our effectiveness in supporting world leading organisations, and our ability to deliver on the complex and demanding requirements of customers such as the MoD. Our success in winning the contract for the JAMES project is based on our competitive pricing, great service and 22 year track record in delivering hardware, software and Information Assurance into the MoD. The award of this contract to SBL and Getac is recognition of our ability to offer the highest level of protection for secure data and sensitive information.”
“We understand how critical it is that British soldiers are given the very best technical support possible and are able to use robust equipment that will stand up to the rigours of life in the field,” explained Peter Molyneux, Business Development Director for Getac in the UK. “We are confident that SBL’s ability to deliver high quality service, world-leading software and support, coupled with Getac’s ability to offer some of the most rugged computers available, will make a strong contribution to the JAMES project and the capability of our armed forces.”
This contract was developed from SBL’s agreement to supply encrypted products, licenses and maintenance. Gardner comments: “Our original encryption deal with JAMES, secured through our DE&S ISS Framework agreement opened the door to further discussions and recommendations. We worked hard to meet the tenders’ specification, whilst also looking for opportunities to add value and offer highly competitive prices, helping us to develop our contract further.”
SBL successfully retained its position on the DE&S ISS Framework in May 2010 for the supply of Information Assurance products and services, specifically including Cryptographic solutions of Impact Levels 3 and above.
As public sector framework specialists SBL works with key partners to ensure a price competitive service, to drive cost savings to the customer and to allow products and services offered to expand strategically. Working within a responsible community SBL develops innovative and bespoke solutions that are derived from customer's requirements, as opposed to market pressure.
SBL delivers framework exclusive pricing and solutions, vendor independence, free industry procurement consultancy and Information Assurance expertise.
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For media information please contact Lindsey Davies or Emma Lupton of Open Communications on 01924 862477. lindsey.davies@opencomms.co.uk or emma.lupton@opencomms.co.uk
About SBL
SBL is a Value Added Software Reseller, Hardware Supplier & Information Assurance Specialist with an in-house Professional Service practice enabling the delivery of a comprehensive and innovative range of IT Solutions.
Established in 1987, SBL boasts a long and distinguished history supplying best of breed IT products and services to some of the largest, most complex, and most demanding customers in the UK Public Sector.
About Getac
Getac UK is a wholly owned subsidiary of Getac Technology Corporation. Getac Technology Corporation, a key subsidiary of MiTAC-Synnex Business Group (2010 consolidated revenue 21.5 billion USD), was established in 1989 as a joint venture with GE Aerospace to supply defence electronic products. Getac’s business coverage includes; rugged notebooks, rugged tablet PCs and rugged handheld devices for military, police, government, communications, manufacturing and transportation applications ranging from fully rugged to commercial-grade rugged. Getac’s strong R&D capabilities allow it to provide a high level of customisation and all-aspect hardware-software integration solutions. Apart from the rugged computing business, Getac is also involved with the design and manufacture of plastic and lightweight metal components. The acquisition of Waffer Technology in 2009 has made Getac the world’s third largest aluminium-magnesium alloy producer. For more information visit Getac.
About – Joint Asset Management and Engineering Solutions (JAMES)
Working to provide the right equipment, in the right configuration and condition, in the right amount, in the right place and at the right time through improved engineering and asset management for LAND managed equipment; increased equipment availability and reliability; and improved engineering support data and techniques.About Defence Equipment and Support
Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) equips and supports the UK’s armed forces for current and future operations. Employing roughly 22,500 people, with a budget of £13 billion, its headquarters is in Bristol with other sites across the UK and overseas.DE&S acquires and supports equipment and services, including ships, aircraft, vehicles and weapons, information systems and satellite communications. As well as continuing to supply general requirements, food, clothing, medical and temporary accommodation, DE&S is also responsible for HM Naval Bases, the joint supply chain and British Forces Post Office.
DE&S works closely with industry through partnering agreements and private finance initiatives in accordance with the Defence Industrial Strategy to seek and deliver effective solutions for defence.
