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The companies have teamed up to offer cyber security solutions to SMEs across the defence industry.
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Saab Australia and BAE Systems Australia have jointly formed the Cyber Framework for the Defence Industry (CFDI) — a new mechanism aimed at bolstering the cyber resilience of local SMEs exploring work opportunities in the defence industry.
The CFDI — developed in collaboration with the Centre for Defence Industry Capability and the Australian Cyber Security Centre — provides a standardised approach to cyber maturity assessment, while also offering guidance for strengthening cyber security practices.
The framework has reportedly been adopted by 12 prime contractors.
According to Saab Australia managing director Andy Keough, the new framework would help improve access to the defence supply chain for local businesses.
“Currently, SMEs face a different and complex security assessment process each time they work with a different defence prime,” Keough said.
“In developing this framework, we have reduced red tape, making it easier for SMEs to secure opportunities in the defence sector.
“By the very nature of their size, many SMEs do not have the resources or expertise to upskill in information handling or cyber protection to meet defence requirements. This framework gives them a clear roadmap to gaining the required levels of cyber maturity.”
BAE Systems Australia chief information and digital officer Michael Salas noted the importance of broadening work opportunities for SMEs.
“The Cyber Framework is a great start for SMEs wanting to self-assess their level of cyber risk,” he said.
“They can undertake a quick assessment of their cyber maturity which then leads to the identification of key areas to invest and improve a company’s defences.
“This leads to improving the cyber maturity of our defence supply chain and better outcomes for our client.”
According to Audra McCarthy, chief executive officer of the Defence Teaming Centre, the new tool is helps Australian SMEs to improve their cyber security capabilities.
“The CFDI tool is an excellent example of industry collaboration by defence primes to assist Australian SMEs improve the security of defence supply chains. It’s easy for SMEs to use and most importantly, it empowers SMEs to manage their security function by demystifying and simplifying the compliance requirements," McCarthy said.
[Related: Saab Australia launches joint SEA 1905 bid]
