T-SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL GMBH

Their core work

T-Systems is the enterprise IT division of Deutsche Telekom, providing cloud infrastructure, managed connectivity, and digital platform services to large organizations across Europe. In H2020 projects, they contribute telecommunications infrastructure (especially 5G networks), IoT platforms, cybersecurity services, and cloud computing capabilities. Their role is typically to supply and operate the digital backbone — networks, edge computing, secure communications — that other consortium partners build applications on top of. They bridge telecom-grade infrastructure with emerging domains like connected vehicles, quantum-safe networking, and smart city platforms.

What they specialise in

How they've shifted over time

In 2015–2018, T-Systems focused on foundational IT services: distributed cloud infrastructure (INDIGO-DataCloud), logistics data exchange (AEOLIX), smart city platforms (mySMARTLife), and cybersecurity threat intelligence (SISSDEN). From 2018 onward, their portfolio shifted decisively toward 5G-enabled connected mobility and advanced security — cross-border 5G vehicle corridors, quantum-safe networking, IoT certification frameworks, and automated transport systems. The transition reflects Deutsche Telekom's broader strategic bet on 5G as an enterprise platform, with T-Systems positioning itself as the secure connectivity provider for autonomous and cooperative transport.

T-Systems is converging on secure 5G infrastructure for autonomous transport and quantum-safe communications — expect them to seek partnerships combining telecom, vehicle automation, and post-quantum cryptography.

How they like to work

T-Systems has never coordinated an H2020 project — they consistently join as a participant or third party, contributing infrastructure and telecom services rather than leading the research agenda. With 400 unique partners across 41 countries, they operate as a hub connecting to very large consortia (typical for transport and 5G demonstration projects). Their frequent third-party role (5 of 14 projects) suggests they are often brought in to provide specific telecom or IT services that the consortium needs but doesn't want to fund as a full partner.

T-Systems has worked with 400 unique partners across 41 countries, reflecting the very large consortia typical of 5G corridor and smart city demonstration projects. Their network spans nearly all of Europe with no narrow geographic concentration.

What sets them apart

T-Systems brings something few academic or SME partners can: production-grade telecom infrastructure backed by Deutsche Telekom's network. For any consortium needing real 5G testbeds, cross-border connectivity, or enterprise-scale cloud and security services, they are one of a handful of partners who can deploy at operational scale rather than prototype level. Their combination of 5G, IoT security certification, and quantum-safe networking expertise makes them particularly valuable for projects that must demonstrate end-to-end secure communications in real environments.

Highlights from their portfolio

• AEOLIX
  Largest single EC contribution (EUR 998K) — built the logistics data exchange architecture connecting transport operators across Europe.
• 5GCroCo
  Pioneered cross-border 5G corridors for connected and autonomous vehicles between France, Germany, and Luxembourg.
• OPENQKD
  Strategic move into quantum-safe communications — part of Europe's first large-scale quantum key distribution testbed.