Cloud security firm Qualys, Inc. [QLYS] on Monday said has signed a non-binding letter of intent to acquire Second Front Systems in a deal aimed at helping it better reach federal customers, particularly in defense, intelligence and law enforcement.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed. If the companies enter into a definitive acquisition agreement, the deal is expected to close in the second half of 2018.iStock Cyber Lock

“This acquisition would enable us to strengthen our federal division and expand the reach of the Qualys Gov Platform to various government sectors including military and defense,” Philippe Courtot, chairman and CEO of California-based Qualys, said in a statement. “Second Front Systems provides comprehensive advisory services and cyber security solutions to government agencies addressing specific and pressing national security needs, to include those dealing with classified information.”

Qualys’ cloud platform includes sensors on premises, at endpoints or in the cloud to allow users to continuously monitor their information technology (IT) assets and automate the full spectrum of auditing, compliance and protection for their IT systems and web applications.

According to its annual report, Qualys had 869 full-time employees at the end of 2017 and $230.8 million in sales. Net income last year was $40.4 million.

If the deal is concluded, Northern Virginia-based Second Front will operate as an independent subsidiary under its federal division. Second Front is a Qualys channel partner for delivering solutions from the Qualys Gov Platform to federal agencies.