Thales appoints Robert Geckle CEO of Thales USA and North America

• Effective July 1, 2026, Thales has appointed Robert Geckle as CEO of Thales USA and Thales North America, succeeding CEO Alan Pellegrini, who is retiring after 20 years at Thales.
  
  
• Robert Geckle brings extensive leadership experience and will drive Thales North America’s strategy, focusing on innovation, customer mission support, and continued expansion across Canada and the U.S.
  
  
• Alan Pellegrini leaves behind a strong and expansive North American business and will remain a key executive through the end of 2026.
  
  

Thales has named Robert Geckle as Chief Executive Officer of Thales USA and Thales North America, effective July 1, 2026.

This announcement comes as Alan Pellegrini prepares to retire from his role as CEO of Thales USA and Thales North America effective June 30, following nearly 20 years at Thales. Alan Pellegrini has led Thales North America through a period of significant transformation and growth, strengthening the company’s market position and expanding its footprint across aerospace, defense, digital identity and cybersecurity. He will remain a key executive in the company through the end of 2026 to ensure a smooth transition.

Robert Geckle brings extensive leadership experience to the role, having previously served as Chairman and CEO of Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc. At Thales, he will oversee the company’s North American operations and strategy as it experiences continued growth in Canada and the U.S.

“This is an exciting time for Thales. With a 130-year legacy in North America, and more than $5 billion in annual global R&D investment driving our innovation, we have a powerful platform for continued growth and investment in the region.” commented Robert Geckle.

“It has been a privilege to lead Thales North America and to work alongside talented colleagues, united by our shared purpose to build a future we can all trust. I am confident that the organization will continue to thrive under Rob’s leadership.” added Alan Pellegrini.

“North America is a key region for Thales’ global strategy. Alan’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping Thales’s success in North America. We are grateful for his dedication, vision, and many contributions to the company. Rob’s experience across advanced defense platforms and government-focused markets will be instrumental in driving further growth in North America.” said Patrice Caine, Chief Executive Officer, Thales Group.

About Thales

Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services helps address several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

The Group allocates €4.5 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Quantum and Cloud technologies.

Thales has more than 85,000 employees in 65 countries. In 2025, the Group generated sales of €22.1 billion.

About Thales in Canada

For more than 50 years, Thales Canada has delivered proven, trusted and secure solutions to customers across Canada. The company brings a strong national footprint and a deeply skilled workforce dedicated to anticipating and exceeding customer needs. As a national leader in advanced research and technology, Thales Canada plays a key role in strengthening national security, advancing deep‑tech innovation, and growing Canada’s defence and digital ecosystems.

About Thales in the U.S.

For more than a century, Thales has delivered proven, trusted and secure solutions to customers across the United States. The company brings a strong national footprint and a deeply skilled workforce dedicated to anticipating and exceeding customer needs. Backed by extensive manufacturing capabilities, Thales works closely with customers and local industries to solve complex challenges for every operational environment. ​