BT is to provide Nato's Consultation, Command and Control Agency (NC3A) with a communications network linking more than 70 locations in Nato countries and the Balkans, it has been announced.

NC3A and the telecommunications firm have signed a five-year contract valued at €47 million which will see Nato switch to BT Ethernet Connect. This will give it exclusive control over its IP architecture.

BT will also provide the Nato agency with Ethernet Connect E-LINE services as part of the agreement.

Georges D'hollander, general manager of NC3A, said: "Information - and the ability to share it rapidly across a coalition - plays a paramount role in 21st century operations, as well as political decision-making.

"To underpin this, we need a flexible, future-proof network. BT has, over the years, developed an in-depth understanding of the specific challenges we face. Their BT Connect portfolio is particularly well-designed to support our communications needs."

NC3A delivers technology that supports Nato's operations around the world.