ANOTHER leading international aerospace and defence company has forged links with Gwent, signing an agreement with the University of South Wales.

The university has teamed up with French multinational Thales to collaborate on new technologies, including cyber security.

Students at the university, which has a world-leading cyber security academy, will benefit from placements and internships as well as guest lectures and site visits.

Thales joins Airbus in Newport and General Dynamics in Blackwood as the latest major aerospace multinational to create links with Gwent.

The company's vice president for secure communications and information systems Gareth Williams said: "We look forward to working closely with the University of South Wales, continuing to work with the brightest minds to innovate, and develop new solutions to the cyber security challenges of today and tomorrow."

The university's vice chancellor Julie Lydon said: "This agreement is the next milestone as we grow our relationship, creating value for our economy, our students, and the world of industry."