Codan (ASX-CDA), headquartered in Adelaide, Australia, and Codan US, today announced the development of its new central Military and Security Division in Manassas, Va. The Military and Security Division will focus on providing affordable, reliable high-frequency radio communications products and systems for worldwide defence and government organisations. Andrew Sheppard, who has recently been appointed vice president and general manager, will oversee sales, business development, field engineering, contracts and other functions for the new division.
Mr Sheppard said: “The development of the Military and Security Division is part of an ongoing plan by Codan to strengthen its global presence and develop a closer understanding of the needs of government and defence organisations, primarily involved in reconstruction and rebuilding initiatives.”
Codan customers include the US Department of Defense and civil authority segments within internal security. Mr Sheppard said: “Like our customers, we believe that radio communications, which are simple to operate and maintain, are one of the keys to providing security. Codan radios have traditionally been used by non- governmental organisations (NGOs) in much the same manner as they will also be used for counter narcotics, counter insurgency, border control and emergency communications.” Mr Sheppard noted that Codan is already a recognised supplier to the US Army and has provided thousands of transceivers to support security and rebuilding programmes in the Middle East and Africa.
Donald McGurk, divisional general manager, HF Business Unit, Codan Limited, said: “The Military and Security Division is part of our continuing effort to expand into markets that have synergy with our heritage of serving humanitarian organisations in developing countries. In this tough economic climate, we find that most military and security customers are pursuing more affordable, but proven radio technology, such as we have provided for almost 50 years to our worldwide customer base.”
Mr Sheppard served 20 years in the British Army on a variety of operations worldwide. Retiring from the Army in 2002, he joined the industry and held roles both in engineering and business development before joining Codan US. Sheppard is a Chartered Engineer and holds advanced degrees in electrical engineering and systems management.