In this wide-ranging interview with Aviacionline, Luis Mongini, General Manager of Thales for the Southern Cone, presents himself as a long-term strategic partner for the governments of Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay. The conversation revolves around the concrete pillars of digital sovereignty: ensuring that states know where their data is and who accesses it, delivering transparent and auditable technologies instead of “black boxes”, and investing in local talent and knowledge transfer so that critical systems can be operated and evolved within the region itself.<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: As the first Argentine to lead the region, how does Thales translate the global concept of “Digital Sovereignty” into the reality of the Southern Cone, ensuring that governments maintain control of their data and critical infrastructure without relying on technological black boxes?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: As a global company with a strong local presence, at Thales we understand that digital sovereignty is not an abstract concept, but a strategic necessity for the countries of the Southern Cone.<\/p>\n
We translate that vision into pillars: effective data control, where governments must know where their data is, who accesses it and under what conditions, through open architectures, robust encryption and models in which the client always maintains ownership and governance of the information; technological transparency, avoiding “black boxes” and betting on auditable, interoperable solutions aligned with international standards that allow states to integrate capabilities.<\/p>\n
Finally, local capability development, understanding that true sovereignty is not imported but built, which is why we invest in regional talent, knowledge transfer and partnerships with local ecosystems, both public and private, so that critical infrastructure can be operated, maintained and evolved within the region itself.<\/p>\n
In the Southern Cone, where cybersecurity challenges, state modernization and critical infrastructure protection coexist, our role is not just to provide technology, but to be a trusted partner that accompanies governments in designing sustainable, secure and autonomous models in the long term.<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: you have emphasized the development of a local industrial network. Under what technical protocols does Thales ensure Level 3 technology transfer to its partners in Argentina and Chile to guarantee autonomy in the maintenance and evolution of defense systems?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: Technology transfer is a central part of the way we work, especially in Defense projects. In each program, collaboration schemes are defined that include access to technical documentation, support tools, training and support in operation and maintenance.<\/p>\n
Depending on the client and the regulatory framework of each country, these processes can reach different levels of depth. In the four countries of the Southern Cone (Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay) we work with local partners so they can progressively assume greater responsibilities within the system lifecycle. It is a gradual approach, aligned with international standards and focused on long-term sustainability. In short, technology transfer and maintenance and upgrade processes are one of Thales’ main pillars for its clients in the region.<\/p>\n
Interoperability in Defense (SDR)<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: with the deployment of software-defined radios (SYNAPS), what engineering challenges do you face to ensure interoperability under international standards in operational theaters with terrains as complex as those of the Andean region?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: Interoperability is a key challenge in any tactical communications system, even more so in complex geographies like the Andean region. It is not enough to comply with international standards; it is necessary to ensure that systems work reliably in real operating conditions.<\/p>\n
Software-defined radios can adapt to different scenarios, but they require significant integration and validation work. In that sense, the focus is on achieving a balance between flexibility, robustness and security, always considering the particularities of the operating environment.<\/p>\n
In scenarios like the Andean region, it is not just interoperability but maintaining it under extremely degraded propagation conditions. Here it is key that SYNAPS was conceived as a native tactical network system, capable of supporting hierarchical and collaborative real-time communications, with high data rates, security and resistance to interference. This translates into adaptive waveforms and efficient spectrum management that optimizes performance even under complex conditions.<\/p>\n
Also important is the coexistence between forces with different levels of digitization. That is why one of SYNAPS’ design principles is to support multi-level interoperability, civil, national and coalition, allowing operation with radios of different generations and doctrines, including systems already deployed on multiple air, land and naval platforms.<\/p>\n
From a systems engineering perspective, there is a key component of scalability and self-adaptation. SYNAPS is designed for networks ranging from small units to brigade-level deployments, dynamically adapting to the operational configuration and prioritizing critical information flows in real time.<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: what is the technical roadmap for the implementation of Software-Defined Satellites (SDS) in the region, and what real operational flexibility do they provide over fixed transponder payloads?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: Following the legacy of ARSAT-1 and ARSAT-2, the path toward Software-Defined Satellites (SDS) in the region is, above all, a strategic evolution rather than a purely technical one. It is about moving from rigid models, fully defined before launch, to much more flexible platforms capable of adapting to the changing needs of countries over time.<\/p>\n
In practice, this means that SDS allow satellite capacity to be managed dynamically: adjusting coverage, prioritizing certain regions or services, and responding more quickly to situations such as demand spikes or emergencies. Compared to fixed transponders, which have practically unchangeable configurations, this flexibility provides a key advantage: extending the satellite’s useful life and value, continuously aligning it with market realities and public policies.<\/p>\n
For the Southern Cone region, progress toward this type of solution will depend on each country’s priorities, but the trend is clear: building smarter, more adaptable and resilient infrastructures.<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: The solar-powered radar in Calama was a milestone. Technically, how are you optimizing signal processing in the backend of AESA radars to maintain a high target discrimination rate for low radar cross-section (RCS) targets while operating in environments with limited renewable energy?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: In this type of environment, system efficiency is as relevant as detection capability. In AESA radars, much of the optimization occurs in digital processing and system resource management.<\/p>\n
Work is being done to improve the relationship between performance and energy consumption, especially in contexts where energy availability may be limited. It is a balance between maintaining adequate detection levels and operating sustainably, something that is becoming increasingly relevant in projects of this type.<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: With 2026 being a critical year for data security, what is the status of the migration toward post-quantum algorithms in the Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) that Thales provides to banks and governments in the Southern Cone?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: At Thales we understand that 2026 is a turning point for data security, especially given the imminent arrival of quantum computing. In that context, the migration toward post-quantum algorithms in the Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) that we provide to banks and governments in the Southern Cone is already underway, in a phase of progressive but increasingly accelerated adoption.<\/p>\n
Today, rather than an immediate replacement, the approach is one of preparation and transition: we are incorporating capabilities in our HSMs that allow these organizations to begin adopting more resilient encryption schemes while maintaining continuity of their current operations. This is key because we are talking about environments where extremely sensitive information is protected: citizen data, financial services and critical infrastructure, and where any breach can have a direct impact on daily life and institutional stability.<\/p>\n
The urgency lies in updating protection strategies. That is why we accompany our clients not only with technology, but also with a long-term vision, helping them assess risks, plan the migration and ensure that their data remains protected in a rapidly evolving technological scenario.<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: Given the increase in attacks on critical infrastructure, how are you implementing Zero Trust architectures in industrial networks (OT) where legacy systems coexist with latest-generation IoT devices?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: Faced with the increase in attacks on critical infrastructure, we are addressing the implementation of Zero Trust architectures in industrial environments (OT) starting from a clear reality: traditional security models are no longer sufficient to protect environments where legacy systems coexist with IoT devices and where data and applications are distributed across multiple locations. This new scenario has expanded the attack surface and exposed organizations to increasingly sophisticated threats.<\/p>\n
For years, many organizations relied on solutions like VPNs to enable remote access \u2014 in fact, according to the Thales Access Management Index 2025, 60% initially used them \u2014 but their limitations have accelerated the transition toward more advanced approaches such as software-defined perimeter (SDP) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), identified as a priority.<\/p>\n
In OT environments, where it is not feasible to immediately replace legacy systems, the approach is progressive: we overlay security layers based on identity, segment access at a very granular level and apply continuous verification for every user, device and application, regardless of their origin. This allows us to securely integrate new technologies with existing infrastructures without disrupting operations.<\/p>\n
The value of the Zero Trust model lies precisely in that balance: enabling legitimate access to critical systems without compromising security. Through robust authentication, dynamic policies and automation, organizations can maintain operational continuity \u2014 key in industrial environments \u2014 while strengthening their resilience against an ever-evolving threat landscape.<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: Thales is a leader in air traffic management (TopSky). How do you address the challenge of AI “explainability” so that regional air traffic controllers can trust automated decisions without compromising critical safety certification?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: Thales addresses the challenge of AI “explainability” in systems like TopSky under a key principle: in critical safety environments, artificial intelligence does not replace the human, but assists them in a transparent, traceable and certifiable manner. In practice, this means that system recommendations are designed so that the air traffic controller always retains final control; automation suggests, but does not autonomously decide in critical situations. Furthermore, each recommendation can be understood and audited, allowing operators to know the data and logic behind each suggestion and validate its coherence both in real time and afterwards.<\/p>\n
All of this is developed under strict aeronautical regulatory frameworks, ensuring that solutions are explainable, verifiable and compatible with certification processes. At the same time, AI is integrated into an open, secure and resilient architecture that facilitates human supervision and controlled system evolution without compromising operational continuity or data integrity.<\/p>\n
Finally, through collaborative governance frameworks like the SkyBridge Alliance, air navigation service providers actively participate in the evolution of the system, ensuring that AI capabilities align with real operational needs and regulations. Together, this approach ensures that AI is understandable, always under human supervision and integrated into a fully certifiable environment, building trust without compromising safety.<\/p>\n
Biometrics and Edge Computing<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: In citizen identity projects, what have been the technical challenges of implementing Match-on-Card (biometrics processed within the chip) to guarantee total user privacy in fast-growing markets like Uruguay and Paraguay?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: In citizen identity projects, implementing Match-on-Card involves a significant technical challenge because the entire biometric process occurs within the chip of the card, without exposing data to the outside. This requires working with very limited computing and storage capabilities, optimizing algorithms to be fast, accurate and efficient within a highly restricted environment. At the same time, it is essential to guarantee interoperability with different systems and devices in countries that are modernizing their infrastructure, which adds complexity to the integration.<\/p>\n
Another key challenge is ensuring a smooth user experience, since verification must be virtually instantaneous despite the chip’s limitations. Furthermore, in fast-growing markets, the solution must scale while maintaining high security standards and complying with evolving regulatory frameworks. Overall, the challenge has been balancing total privacy \u2014 as biometrics never leave the document \u2014 with performance, usability and compatibility, ensuring that the technology is robust, reliable and ready to scale.<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: After working with players like Naranja X, what innovations in the Secure Element of mobile devices are you prioritizing to mitigate fraud in financial transactions traveling over 5G\/6G networks?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: Experiences with players like Naranja X have allowed us to showcase our solutions to strengthen the security of the online payment ecosystem. Among the solutions Thales promotes to increase security in our clients’ operations, we also have the evolution of Secure Elements in mobile devices to adapt them to the new reality of 5G networks and, in the future, 6G, where everything is more connected and, therefore, more exposed.<\/p>\n
In simple terms, the goal is to better protect data and transactions from the device itself. This means that sensitive information, such as payment credentials or personal data, remains secure within the device, isolated from potential threats, even when used for payments, digital services or IoT applications. We are also strengthening transaction security as they travel over the network, ensuring they arrive intact and without being intercepted. At this point, it is key to comply with global standards such as EMVCo, Visa, Mastercard or ISO, which guarantee trust in the financial ecosystem.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, Secure Elements today must be more versatile, capable of supporting multiple uses \u2014 payments, transportation, access or cloud services \u2014 and adapting to different devices, from smartphones to any connected equipment.<\/p>\n
Ultimately, it’s about evolving toward more comprehensive and simpler-to-manage security, where the device, network and services work in a coordinated manner to reduce fraud and protect the user in an increasingly digital environment.<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: With a global hiring plan of 9,000 people, what specific skills gaps (e.g. Quantum Engineering or Cloud Security) do you identify as the most critical to fill in the Southern Cone engineering ecosystem?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: At Thales, the skills gaps we identify in the Southern Cone are directly aligned with the areas where we are concentrating our growth. According to our hiring plan, new hires are allocated to engineering functions, especially in software and systems engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data, which today represent the most critical capabilities to support the technological evolution of our sectors.<\/p>\n
But beyond specific profiles like quantum engineering or cloud security, which are part of the natural evolution of the sector, our priority in the region is to consolidate a solid talent base in these key disciplines, combining technical knowledge with adaptability. That is why we complement hiring with continuous development initiatives, such as our “Learning Company” approach and more than 35 internal academies globally, which allow us to close skills gaps and prepare our teams for the technological challenges of the future.<\/p>\n
Legacy versus innovation<\/p>\n
Aviacionline: How does Thales manage the technical lifecycle to keep radar and communication systems from two decades ago operational, while simultaneously integrating infrastructures ready for quantum computing?<\/p>\n
Luis Mongini: Managing the balance between legacy and innovation is one of today’s great technological challenges, and at Thales we approach it from a logic of operational continuity with progressive evolution. It is not about replacing critical systems from two decades overnight, such as radars or communication infrastructures, but rather extending their useful life safely through additional layers of protection, modular modernization and integration with new digital architectures.<\/p>\n
This approach becomes even more relevant in a context where cybersecurity is no longer an exclusively technical issue but becomes a matter of public interest, directly linked to national sovereignty, institutional stability and citizen protection. It requires shared responsibility between governments, companies and civil society. Leaving critical infrastructures such as energy, transportation or defense vulnerable can have systemic consequences. That is why, more than managing lifecycles, we manage trust: ensuring that what works today remains secure, while we prepare the ground for the future.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"In this wide-ranging interview with Aviacionline, Luis Mongini, General Manager of Thales for the Southern Cone, presents himself…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":41408,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[13059],"tags":[4462,4965,28389,28390,5719],"class_list":["post-41407","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-thales","tag-digital-sovereignty","tag-interview","tag-luis-mongini","tag-southern-cone","tag-thales"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/41407","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=41407"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/41407\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/41408"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=41407"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=41407"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/france\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=41407"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}