Thales and Leonardo have been selected to provide next-generation Deployable Communication and Information Systems (CIS) for NATO Special Operations Forces Headquarters (SOFCOM) under a new consortium contract.
The programme covers the delivery and training of six Deployable Points of Presence for Special Operations Component Commands (DPOP SOCC), providing secure, deployable command-and-control capabilities tailored to the operational requirements of NATO Special Forces.
The new systems are designed to serve as the foundation of a future secure communications architecture for special operations, built on classified, resilient networks capable of supporting highly demanding missions.
According to the companies, the DPOP SOCC solution will feature rapidly deployable IT infrastructure, resilient communications, high-performance computing capabilities, and a reduced electromagnetic and physical footprint. The systems will also provide secure multi-domain data exchange, enhanced cybersecurity, and interoperability across NATO forces.
One of the programme’s key capabilities is the introduction of real-time Full Motion Video (FMV) sharing between different deployable systems—described as a first for NATO special operations—enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness in the field.
As system providers, Thales and Leonardo will deliver the complete deployable CIS capability while also supporting lifecycle upgrades, training, and operational transition under the leadership of the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA).
Beyond the Franco-Italian partnership, the programme will also leverage industrial contributions from across the Alliance, including key technologies supplied by companies in the United Kingdom and Germany.
Alexandre Bottero, Vice President of Networks and Infrastructure Systems at Thales, said the partnership combines Thales’ expertise in secure NATO communications with Leonardo’s proven deployable command systems to provide modular, upgradeable and operationally proven capabilities for NATO Special Forces.
Antonio Levato, Senior Vice President of Air and Land Systems, Land and Sea Business at Leonardo Electronics, highlighted Leonardo’s experience in delivering command post capabilities for the Italian Armed Forces, noting that the collaboration will combine field-proven deployable solutions with Thales’ expertise in NATO secure communications programs.