Next Generation Desktop pilot program begins

Thales Australia and the Department of Defence have commenced the Next Generation Desktop (NGD) project pilot program, which is delivering 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.

The pilot program is an essential part of a planned future rollout across Defence, and has already made significant gains in de-risking the project, validating the technical design, proving cost savings and enhancing the user experience.

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, generating long term Strategic Reform Program savings.

”This strategic project is a prime example of how new technologies can lead to impressive capability increases combined with genuine cost savings.

Our team is collaborating very closely with the customer and our partners to deliver this pilot phase, which has already smoothed the way for the next stage of wider implementation.

Over the years to come, NGD will enable cost savings in the millions of dollars, making this investment a worthy use of taxpayers’ money,” Chris Jenkins, Thales Australia’s CEO, said.

Matt Yannopoulos, Chief Technology Officer, Department of Defence, said, "This pilot program supports a major Defence ICT reform initiative.

The pilot has proven the technology is capable of meeting our needs and has offered learnings for implementation design."

The pilot program is being conducted at multiple Defence sites around Australia in order to show that the required functionality can be provided to the end users regardless of their location.

The pilot has so far successfully demonstrated that a Server Based Computing solution can deliver a stable, responsive desktop with all of the expected capabilities, including printing.

Thales has also invested with Microsoft and Citrix, two of its three main partners in the project, in extensive testing conducted at Microsoft’s US facilities that has confirmed the core NGD design and provided real-world performance data.

In addition, a support team and help desk are up and running, providing assistance to Defence personnel as they become acquainted with the new technology.

Prime contractor Thales Australia and a team of partners including Raytheon Trusted Computer Solutions (RTCS), Microsoft and Citrix are currently delivering and supporting the NGD pilot program.