A new agreement has been made between BT and the UK Government which will seek to enhance internet security operations at the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

With more than 1,000 potential hacking attempts reported in 2010, the Government department plans to build on its existing deal with BT to make its global networks more secure.

Under a seven-year agreement, the telecoms giant will provide the MoD with new solutions which are designed to block hacking attempts and protect data in the event of a possible cyber attack.

BT Global Services spokesman Neil Rogers welcomed the latest announcement, calling it a "huge achievement" for the company.

The new deal highlights the success of BT's current collaboration with the MoD, Mr Rogers said.

He added: "The service has already delivered a range of benefits - not just in terms of security but also financial and operational efficiencies - (and) this deal will boost those gains further."