BWI GmbH (OSADL Bronze Member)

BWI GmbH – IT Specialist and Digitalization Partner of the German Armed Forces
State-owned IT service provider BWI GmbH is one of the largest of its kind in Germany. Its service portfolio ranges from needs analysis to 24/7 IT support, and also includes consulting, design, implementation, and IT operations. As digitalization partner of the German Armed Forces (the Bundeswehr), it is responsible for driving innovation and supporting the armed forces in its digital transformation. Many of the solutions developed by the Bundeswehr and BWI could serve as blueprints for digitization projects throughout the Bundeswehr as well as externally.

BWI was founded in 2006 with the mission of modernizing the Bundeswehr’s IT environment. This was completely restructured by BWI as part of the ten-year HERKULES project, which remains one of the largest IT consolidation and modernization projects in Europe. Valuable experience was gained during this process which enables BWI to operate and continually develop high-performance, reliable, and secure IT infrastructure for its customers.

Fully focused on the needs of the Bundeswehr, BWI has expanded its service portfolio immensely in recent years. At one time, what is known as “white”, civilian IT was top priority. Yet recently, more services encompass “green”, mission-related IT, such as digitalizing land- based operations (DLB-O). Digitalizing Bundeswehr healthcare (DigiGesVersBw) and introducing a Bundeswehr cloud platform are other key ongoing projects. Furthermore, BWI develops and tests innovative solutions for civilian employees and soldiers in areas such as open source, VR/AR, and AI, through its innovation units.

On course to become the most modern company in the public sector, BWI has not only improved its reputation as an IT service provider and adapted to growing industry requirements, it has also evolved considerably as an employer. Almost 7,000 employees at over 40 locations comprise BWI’s workforce – all of whom benefit from flexible, modern employment models.

To support the digital sovereignty of the Bundeswehr sustainably, while simultaneously focusing on its own core competencies, BWI is setting up an ecosytem of partnerships. By collaborating with commercial enterprises and research institutions, future challenges can be met even faster and more effectively. The BWI’s vision continues to guide the company, which is to ensure the viability of Germany’s digital future.