- Thales subsidiary, Thales Defense & Security, has named David as CEO effective November 2, 2026.
- Zolet brings more than 30 years of experience leading complex organizations across the defense, government services and technology sectors.
- His appointment reinforces TDSI’s focus on delivering critical capabilities for U.S. military and government customers, while expanding its role in defense modernization efforts.
Thales has appointed David Zolet as CEO of Thales Defense & Security, Inc., effective November 2, 2026, succeeding Michael Sheehan, who is retiring after more than 16 years of leadership marked by continued growth and strategic advancement at TDSI.
Zolet brings more than three decades of experience leading organizations at the intersection of technology, government services and national security. Throughout his career, he has guided companies through growth, transformation and evolving customer requirements, with a strong focus on operational excellence and mission delivery.
Prior to joining TDSI, Zolet served as CEO of Astrion, CentralSquare Technologies and LMI. He also held senior leadership roles at Northrop Grumman, IBM and DXC Technology, where he led large-scale operations and helped organizations strengthen performance, expand capabilities and deliver value to customers.
“David is a highly respected leader whose experience and strategic vision make him the right choice to lead Thales Defense & Security,” said Robert Geckle, CEO of Thales North America. “We are excited to welcome him and look forward to his contributions as TDSI continues to support defense customers with critical technologies.”
TDSI provides advanced technologies that support defense and security missions across land, sea, air and cyber domains, including tactical and satellite communications, electronic warfare, cybersecurity, undersea sensing, maritime systems and avionics solutions. Under Zolet’s leadership, the company will continue strengthening its capabilities and partnerships to address the operational challenges facing military and government customers.
“As the global security environment grows more complex, defense customers need advanced technologies and integrated capabilities to meet evolving mission requirements,” said Zolet. “TDSI combines leading technologies, deep expertise and customer focus, backed by the strength of Thales globally. I look forward to working with TDSI’s talented employees to build on their accomplishments and advance the missions our customers depend on us to support.”
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, Cloud technologies and 6G.
Thales has more than 85,000 employees in 65 countries. In 2025, the Group generated sales of €22.1 billion.
About Thales in the USA
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.
PRESS CONTACTS
Thales, Media Relations
Thales Defense & Security, Inc.
Paul D. Mehney
+1 (240) 957-1387
paul.mehney@thalesdsi.com
Thales, Media Relations
North America
Jennifer Tumminio
jennifer.tumminio@thalesgroup.com
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