French electrical systems to aerospace services company Thales will build a research and development (R&D) facility at The Works in Ebbw Vale, South Wales.
Thales will invest up to 20 million pounds ($25.7 million) to develop the facility, which will focus on security systems for power stations, the rail industry, water systems, telecommunications and traffic control.
The facility, to be a testbed for digital security innovations and offer a catalyst for regeneration, will fully be operational by 2021.
The new centre will enhance global opportunities in digital transformation, research and also equip businesses with the skills and knowledge to win large regional and national projects.