As global security environments grow increasingly complex, the ability to maintain secure communication—regardless of time, location, or operational conditions—has become a critical priority for defense organizations. To address these evolving needs, CGI, one of the world’s largest independent IT and business consulting firms, has partnered with the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA) and secunet Security Networks to deliver HERMES, a next-generation secure mobile communication solution.

The HERMES project marks a major advancement in NATO’s digital transformation, strengthening command and control efficiency while enabling executives and key personnel to access classified information securely from mobile environments. By integrating CGI’s managed services with secunet’s Secure Inter-Network Architecture (SINA) technology, the initiative redefines how NATO leaders operate across dynamic, high-security settings.

This article explores the strategic value of the HERMES project, its underlying technology, and the broader impact on NATO’s communication and security framework.

NATO’s Evolving Need for Secure Mobile Communication

Strategic Drivers Behind HERMES

• Increasing demand for secure communication tools that support mobile operations

• Rising geopolitical instability requiring faster decision-making

• Shift from static, location-bound systems to adaptable digital environments

• Need for consistent command and control with zero compromise on confidentiality

Limitations of Traditional Communication Models

• Dependence on fixed, highly controlled environments

• Limited access to classified information outside secure facilities

• Reduced operational agility for leaders who travel extensively

• Slower coordination across multinational teams

Core Capabilities of the HERMES Project

1. Ultra-Secure and Scalable Mobile IT Environment

• Enables NATO executives and designated personnel to access classified information on specially protected equipment

• Maintains top-tier security regardless of location or time

• Supports scalability to accommodate new user groups as operational needs evolve

• Designed to integrate seamlessly with existing NATO security infrastructures

2. Integration of CGI’s Managed Services with SINA Technology

• Combines CGI’s expertise in secure managed services with secunet’s trusted SINA hardware and software platform

• Supports protected connectivity for sensitive operations

• Ensures encrypted communication channels compliant with NATO’s strict security protocols

• Enhances interoperability across NATO member nations and systems

3. Redefining Mobile Command and Control

• Enables leaders to operate remotely without compromising confidentiality

• Provides continuous access to a secure digital work environment during travel and field operations

• Shifts NATO’s communication ecosystem from static to dynamic models

• Improves situational awareness and response speed in crisis scenarios

Key Stakeholder Perspectives

NCIA’s Vision for Modern Command Structures

Ludwig Decamps, General Manager at NCIA, emphasized that HERMES introduces a new dimension of efficient, mobile communication aligned with NATO’s need for modern and flexible operational frameworks.

Key Takeaways:

• Reinforces NATO’s commitment to digital modernization

• Supports mission-critical decision-making in fast-changing environments

• Ensures reliability and consistency across all communication layers

CGI’s Role in Delivering Security-Critical Solutions

Jens Elstermeier of CGI highlighted the importance of absolute reliability in a multinational environment like NATO.

Key Takeaways:

• CGI delivers a solution that supports secure communication in high-dynamic scenarios

• Enhances interoperability across different national security systems

• Builds on long-standing trust and collaboration between CGI and NATO

secunet’s Contribution with SINA Architecture

Marcel Taubert of secunet emphasized the strategic advantage of mobile access to highly classified content.

Key Takeaways:

• SINA technology ensures protected, seamless communication

• Provides encryption and specialized hardware for high-threat environments

• Supports NATO’s requirement for flexible yet secure communication channels

Operational Infrastructure Behind the HERMES Project

1. Establishment of the HERMES Service Operation Centre (HSOC)

• Dedicated monitoring system to ensure continuous operational integrity

• Includes a built-in Security Operation Center (SOC) for realtime threat detection

• Provides 24/7 on-call support to NATO personnel

• Offers global on-site assistance for deployments, configuration, and maintenance

2. End-to-End Secure VPN Management by CGI

• CGI is responsible for setting up and overseeing secure VPN connectivity

• Protects data-in-transit across distributed devices and networks

• Ensures compliance with NATO cybersecurity standards

• Facilitates uninterrupted access to mission-critical applications

3. Specialized Hardware and Encryption by secunet

• secunet provides SINA-based secure hardware components

• Offers modular encryption tools for future scalability

• Enhances hardware-level security against advanced cyber threats

4. Future-Proof Architecture for Extended Use

• Designed for fast expansion to additional NATO units and security domains

• Supports multi-national interoperability as missions evolve

• Ensures long-term adaptability to emerging digital communication threats

Strategic Impact of the HERMES Project on NATO

Strengthening Operational Agility

• Leaders gain the ability to operate securely from any location

• Accelerates decision-making during missions and crisis situations

• Reduces reliance on fixed command centers

Enhancing Multinational Collaboration

• Promotes seamless communication between NATO member states

• Facilitates joint-task operations with unified secure communication protocols

• Strengthens cooperative defense capabilities

Increasing Cyber Resilience

• Provides advanced protection against sophisticated cyber attacks

• Supports permanent monitoring to pre-empt potential threats

• Enhances NATO’s cyber defense posture across all operational units

Supporting Long-Term Digital Transformation

• Aligns with NATO’s modernization initiatives

• Builds a foundation for future secure mobile solutions

• Positions NATO as a leader in defense communication technology

Conclusion

The HERMES project represents a milestone in NATO’s journey toward fully secure, flexible, and mobile communication capabilities. By combining CGI’s managed services expertise with secunet’s SINA technology, NATO is establishing a communication framework that not only meets today’s demands but anticipates future challenges.

With the ability to access classified information securely from any location, NATO leaders gain strategic mobility, enhanced decision-making power, and improved operational agility. HERMES strengthens NATO’s command and control architecture while setting a new standard for secure communication in defense environments.

As global security landscapes continue to evolve, HERMES positions NATO to respond with speed, confidence, and the highest level of protection.

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