$200bn defence push sees IBM team up with Boeing

Aerospace giant Boeing and computing titan IBM on Monday announced an alliance to pursue defence-related work estimated to be worth $200bn.

The companies said they will focus on ground and space-based systems to improve the nation's military communications, intelligence operations and homeland security.

Through a 10-year alliance, the companies said they will develop "advanced digital communications and information technologies for current and future Department of Defense and intelligence systems."

The technologies will be vital for "network-centric operations" where satellites, aircraft, ships, submarines, tanks, radios and even handheld computers share information using the same interfaces, standards or protocols, Boeing and IBM said.

Other technology companies, including Accenture and CSC have been gunning to get a share of the government's work related to national security and information technology.

Ed Frauenheim writes for CNET News.com