Computer Sciences Corp. will provide Textron Inc. with global IT infrastructure and network support services in a 10-year, US$1.1 billion contract announced Thursday. Under the deal, El Segundo, Calif.-based CSC will help manage and support Textron"s global data center and technology help desk and network operations, as well as mainframe and midrange systems, desktops and engineering workstations, CSC said.

"We recognize that partnering with best-practice IT suppliers can help us deliver significant business results," said Ken Bohlen, executive vice president and chief innovation officer at Providence, R.I.-based Textron, in a statement. "After a thorough review of our IT operations and requirements, it was clear that CSC offered the most compelling options for Textron and for our employees."

Textron manufactures a variety of product, including Cessna aircraft, Bell helicopters and specialty marine and land vehicles, as well as real-time control systems and components for weapons and surveillance.

Under the contract, CSC will help Textron reduce costs by delivering a global, integrated IT infrastructure architecture, providing a consistent user environment and standardized processes across its businesses.

Approximately 250 Textron IT employees will be offered employment by CSC, the statement said.