Thales has finalized its $5.4 billion (4.8 million euros) acquisition of Gemalto, creating a global enterprise in digital identity and security, according to a company release.

The addition of Gemalto to its portfolio will allow Thales to span the complete critical decision chain in a digital world, from data generation via sensors to real-time decision support, the company said.

Thales will incorporate the talent and technologies of Gemalto to develop secure solutions to challenges such as unmanned air traffic management, data and network cybersecurity, airport security and financial transaction security.

In a statement, Thales chairman and CEO Patrice Caine highlighted the advantages of the business combination: 

With Gemalto, a global leader in digital identification and data protection, Thales has acquired a set of highly complementary technologies and competencies with applications in all of our five vertical markets, which are now redefined as aerospace, space, ground transportation, digital identity and security, and defense and security. 

These are the smart technologies that help people make the best choices at every decisive moment. The acquisition is a turning point for the group's 80,000 employees. Together, we are creating a giant in digital identity and security with the capabilities to compete in the big leagues worldwide.

Following the acquisition, Gemalto will form one of Thales' seven global divisions, to be named digital identity and security. Gemalto will interact with all of the group's civil and defense customers and will significantly strengthen its industrial presence in 68 countries, the release said. 

The acquisition also will considerably expand Thales' operations in Latin America (from 600 employees to 2,500) as well as triple its presence in Northern Asia (from 700 employees to 1,980), Southeast Asia (from 800 employees to 2,500) and India (from 400 employees to 1,150) and North America (from 4,600 employees to 6,660).