Media Release
Thales Australia and the Department of Defence have announced that the Next Generation Desktop (NGD) project pilot program has been successfully completed.
The Commonwealth has also granted Second Pass approval, marking a significant step in a program that has the potential to deliver long term Strategic Reform Program savings.
The pilot involved over 700 Defence users across Australia trialling a new secure desktop computer system that is simpler to use and less expensive to sustain than current systems.
Instead of multiple terminals for different networks, users will benefit from de-cluttered workspaces with one computer, one keyboard, one screen and one mouse, enabling simultaneous access to the Defence Restricted Network and Defence Secret Network on the same screen.
Thales Australia CEO Chris Jenkins said the pilot was an effective way of gathering real-world data from a multitude of users.
“The pilot not only demonstrated the viability of this Server Based Computing solution, but also generated valuable implementation and de-risking experience across several Defence sites and networks that will prove highly beneficial as the program continues,” he said.
“We have been working very closely with Defence’s Chief Information Officer Group, as well as end users and our partners, to ensure the pilot was a success and their feedback was gathered and integrated into our rollout strategy.
“We have also recently completed a series of joint workshops with the customer, and are currently discussing how to proceed with full scale implementation of the NGD solution.”
Prime contractor Thales Australia and a team of world class partners including Raytheon Trusted Computer Solutions (RTCS), Microsoft and Citrix are currently delivering and supporting the NGD pilot program.
In its full implementation, NGD will use thin client technology to replace traditional desktops, which will substantially reduce hardware, power and sustainment costs for Defence.
Thales Australia and Raytheon Trusted Computer Solutions will be hosting a Next Generation Desktop product briefing at the Military Communications and Information Systems (MilCIS) Conference in Canberra on Wednesday 7 November from 4-5pm.
About Thales
Thales is a global technology leader for the Defence & Security and the Aerospace & Transport markets. In 2011, the company generated revenues of €13 billion (equivalent of AUD 17.5 billion) with 67,000 employees in 56 countries. With its 22,500 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equipment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers and local partners. www.thalesgroup.com
Thales Australia is a trusted partner of the Australian Defence Force and is also present in commercial sectors ranging from air traffic management to security systems and services. Employing around 3,300 people in over 35 sites across the country, Thales Australia recorded revenues of more than AUD 962 million in 2011.
