Saudi Aramco receives bids from defense firms to increase offshore security

Saudi Aramco is getting ready to increase security of its offshore facilities and has already started receiving bids from defense firms, Reuters reported, citing industry sources.

Bidders for the contract, which entails the installation of long range integrated security systems at 9 offshore sites, include Raytheon Co from the US, Rheinmetall AG from Germany, Leonardo’s Selex ES Saudi Arabia, and General Dynamics.

The list will soon include more tenders, Reuters added.

The oil giant reportedly said that it "considers the security of its employees and facilities a top priority and are of the utmost importance."

Aramco is currently evaluating the bids, and is expected to award the contract in late 2017/early 2018.