Enterprise Linux distributor SuSE Linux has thrown its weight behind arch-rival Red Hat's efforts to stop the SCO Group from trying to dictate terms to Linux vendors, developers and users.

Red Hat slapped a 'put up or shut up' lawsuit on SCO on Monday, hoping to force the Unix vendor to prove or withdraw its case. It also set up a $1m fighting fund for Linux developers.

In an official statement, SuSE said: "We applaud [Red Hat's] efforts to restrict the rhetoric of the SCO Group, and the fear, uncertainty and doubt which they are trying to instil."

SuSE explained that it will determine quickly what actions it can take to support Red Hat and hit out at its fellow UnitedLinux member, SCO.

"There have been many unsubstantiated and inflammatory statements made recently in an attempt, we believe, primarily to slow the inevitable acceptance of Linux," said SuSE.

"We call on SCO to stop the fear, uncertainty and doubt and join with the rest of the IT community in building Linux into the next quantum advance in technology."

SuSE pointed out that SCO had already been stopped in Germany, a reference to a restraining court order made in May requiring SCO's German subsidiary to make its evidence public or retract its claims. It chose the latter.

"Linux is a disruptive technology: troubling to many, puzzling to some, potentially freeing to all," continued the SuSE statement.

"With every disruptive technology, there will be those who fight to maintain the status quo; those who fight to hold on to a losing position."

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