An independent cyber security firm which employs more than 200 staff has been taken over by a telecommunications giant.

Maidstone-based SecureData has struck a deal with Orange.

The Kent firm, which has revenues of around £50 million and provides cyber security services to the private and public sector, penned the deal with Orange Cyberdefense and will become part of the Orange Group.

The Maidstone office at Hermitage Court will continue and is set to grow as a result of the agreement.

Ian Brown, executive chairman at SecureData, said: “We are both thrilled and excited to be joining the Orange Cyberdefense family. Both organisations share the same vision and aspiration for the cyber security market and have many complementary services and skills. By being part of Orange, we will be able to better serve the international needs of many of our existing customers as well as providing enhanced cyber services to Orange customers within the UK.”

Hugues Foulon, executive director of strategy and cyber security of Orange added: “Achieving leadership within the European cyber security market by 2022 is a strategic goal of the Orange Group. We view our acquisition of SecureData as a significant milestone in achieving that aspiration.

"We are excited not just by the market and financial achievements of SecureData but also the addition of their highly talented team to the Orange Cyberdefense family. As a result of the partnership we look forward to accelerating the growth plans of both organisations.”