#Germany #NATO #CGI #Cologne #Hermes

CGI Partners with NATO on Project HERMES

CGI has made significant strides in securing mobile communication for NATO with the announcement of its newest collaboration involving the HERMES project. This initiative, developed in partnership with secunet Security Networks, is set to revolutionize NATO's communication infrastructure by introducing a scalable and secure IT solution specifically designed for mobile use.

Project Overview

The core objective of the HERMES project is to enhance NATO's command and control capabilities through reliable mobile communication. This advancement allows key personnel within NATO to maintain secure communications regardless of their geographical location or the time of day. With the increasing need for flexibility in a dynamic operational environment, HERMES aims to provide leaders with persistent access to critical information and secure networks while on the move.

According to Ludwig Decamps, General Manager at the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA), "HERMES represents a new dimension of efficient, mobile communication within NATO in line with the requirements of a modern and flexible command structure." This innovative approach signifies a shift from traditional static communication methods to a more adaptive and responsive format, ensuring that NATO's operational command remains robust and uninterrupted.

Security and Interoperability

The foundation of HERMES lies in CGI's proven managed services combined with secunet's renowned Secure Inter-Network Architecture (SINA) technology. This collaboration ensures that the solution not only meets high security standards but also enhances interoperability among various NATO member states. Jens Elstermeier, Head of Business Development for Defense Intelligence at CGI in Germany, emphasized the importance of reliability in secure communications for multinational military organizations: “In a security-critical and multinational environment such as NATO, absolute reliability is essential.”

The system is designed to facilitate secure data exchanges seamlessly, regardless of the user’s location. This ensures that classified information can be shared confidently among NATO personnel, fostering quicker decision-making and more agile responses to incidents.

Comprehensive Support System

To further enhance the project's capabilities, the HERMES Service Operation Centre (HSOC) will feature permanent monitoring structures, including a dedicated Security Operation Center (SOC). The support services will be available around the clock, ensuring that NATO personnel receive assistance whenever necessary. This comprehensive support framework includes not just technical aid but also user training to maximize the effectiveness of the HERMES solution.

Additionally, CGI will be responsible for establishing and operating a secure end-to-end Virtual Private Network (VPN), ensuring that communication remains encrypted and safe from unauthorized access. Secunet's provision of specialized hardware and encryption components further enhances the project’s security posture, aiding in its scalability for future expansions.

Strategic Advantages

The strategic implications of the HERMES project are substantial. As Marcel Taubert, Vice-President for Defence and Space at secunet, stated, “Those who can work with highly classified content even while mobile have a clear strategic advantage.” This sentiment reflects the critical importance of having robust, secure mobile communication capabilities in an era where information can profoundly influence military outcomes.

As CGI embarks on this transformative partnership with NATO, the HERMES project showcases not only the advancements in military telecommunications but also highlights the importance of collaboration between technology firms and defense agencies. This partnership is expected to set a new standard for secure communications, paving the way for future innovations in military operations.

Conclusion

In summary, CGI's collaboration with NATO through the HERMES project represents a pivotal step towards more secure and efficient military communications. By integrating cutting-edge technology with a user-oriented focus, this initiative aims to revolutionize how NATO manages sensitive information in a mobile context, enhancing overall mission effectiveness. As the project progresses, the outcomes will undoubtedly contribute significantly to NATO's strategic objectives and operational readiness in a rapidly changing global landscape.