CGI (NYSE: GIB) (TSX: GIB.A) has signed an agreement with Thales Alenia Space France to enhance and maintain security software for the Galileo satellite navigation system.

Valued at approximately 14 million euros, the contract will last until the end of 2020. CGI experts are working on this strategic project from Rotterdam and Toulouse. Galileo is the Global Navigation Satellite System built by the European Space Agency and operated by the European GNNS Agency on behalf of the European Union.

Artistic rendition of a Galileo satellite.

CGI will improve the functionality, robustness and reliability of Galileo's ground infrastructure, as well as enhance and maintain software for its Public Regulated Service Key Management Facility (PKMF). The Public Regulated Service (PRS) is one of the key features that distinguishes Galileo from other satellite navigation systems. It ensures that only government-authorized entities have access to Galileo's secure PRS signal that meets strict security standards in areas such as defense, law enforcement, customs, etc.

Guillermo Salgado, GALILEO Ground Mission and EGNOS Programs Director, Thales Alenia Space France, said the company is look forward to working with CGI to ensure the highest level of security for Galileo, along with an efficient, high performance infrastructure. CGI's significant space and security experience, combined with its local presence and global resources, gives the company access to the experts needed to launch and operate one of the world's most advanced satellite navigation systems.

Dirk de Groot, who leads CGI's business unit in the Netherlands, added that CGI has strong legacy in space and the company continues to support space clients across the globe, actively managing their business and national interests while positioning CGI as a trusted space leader.