German-funded 6G-TakeOff initiative strengthens groundwork for non-terrestrial network standardization and roll-out

Successful completion after three years of 6G research in the project “6G-TakeOff” © Deutsche Telekom

(IN BRIEF) The 6G-TakeOff research programme has concluded after three years, presenting breakthroughs in 3D networking — future architectures that integrate ground-based, aerial and satellite systems within a unified 6G framework. Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space, the project demonstrated real-world tests of device handovers across terrestrial, UAV and satellite components, the feasibility of edge computing for non-terrestrial networks and the development of next-generation feederlink antennas with advanced beam steering. Led by Deutsche Telekom and supported by 19 members across aerospace, semiconductor, telecom and research institutions, the initiative generated seven patent applications and will contribute directly to future 6G standardization. With global 6G rollout expected in the early 2030s under 3GPP guidance, the project has laid an essential foundation for resilient, high-capacity, three-dimensional communication networks.

(PRESS RELEASE) BONN, 26-Nov-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — After three years of intensive development, the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space-funded project 6G-TakeOff has officially concluded, marking a milestone for next-generation mobile communications research. The consortium behind the initiative presented its final results at a closing event hosted at the University of Bremen, where partners showcased demonstrators that explore key components of a future 6G architecture — particularly within emerging three-dimensional networks integrating terrestrial, airborne and satellite-based connectivity.

The project focused on advancing the concept of 3D networking, a framework in which traditional ground stations are supplemented by unmanned aerial platforms and space-borne systems to create flexible network layers. These airborne systems, deployable when and where needed, can inject additional capacity on demand. Central research questions centred on how these heterogeneous network elements can be unified into a seamless 6G architecture capable of coordinating multiple access technologies — ultimately allowing devices and services to use connectivity optimally and continuously across environments. The findings represent a significant contribution to non-terrestrial network (NTN) research and are expected to influence future 6G standardization.

A major success factor for 6G-TakeOff was its cross-sector structure, designed to merge engineering, communications, aerospace, software and applied research expertise. Under the leadership of Deutsche Telekom, 19 organizations jointly contributed to conceptual, experimental and system-integration work. Technology partners included Airbus Defence and Space GmbH, Creonic GmbH, DSI Aerospace GmbH, EANT GmbH, IMST GmbH, NXP Semiconductors, OTARIS Interactive Services GmbH, Rohde & Schwarz and Boldyn Networks. User-side insight was provided by John Deere GmbH & Co. KG and ZF Friedrichshafen AG, while O2 Telefónica joined Deutsche Telekom as the second network operator. Academic and research partners — among them DLR, Fraunhofer FOKUS, IHP Leibniz, TU Kaiserslautern, University of Bremen and the Center for Telematics Würzburg — enhanced the scientific depth of the programme.

Multiple demonstrators were developed to validate theoretical models and test real-world applicability:

• 3D network handover testing: At the University of Bremen, a scaled network environment combined terrestrial base stations, UAV-based access points and satellite hardware mounted on a 146-metre tower. The setup enabled live testing of device handovers across air and ground nodes — research that will continue beyond the project as the testbed remains active.

• Mobile edge computing (MEC) for non-terrestrial networks: Researchers demonstrated that edge processing can be deployed dynamically within NTNs, supporting localised data processing with low latency — particularly valuable for temporary or mission-specific communication scenarios.

• Feederlink development for UAV connectivity: Novel high-directionality antenna systems were engineered to enable high-capacity feederlinks between UAV platforms and ground stations. New beam steering techniques were also introduced, improving alignment and maintaining signal quality even with continuous aerial movement.

In total, the project yielded seven patent applications, underscoring the innovation potential generated through cross-industry collaboration.

Reflecting on the outcome, Thomas Lips, SVP RAN Disaggregation & Enablement at Deutsche Telekom, said:
“6G-TakeOff has given us deeper insight into the real-world integration challenges between terrestrial and non-terrestrial network components. It shows how upcoming 6G systems may deliver increased resilience and capacity while ensuring continuity across different environments. This achievement establishes a strong base for ongoing multi-sector cooperation in the development of 6G.”

With 6G expected to enter commercial deployment in the early 2030s, international standardization under 3GPP is already underway. The 6G-TakeOff results will help shape the technical foundation required to merge terrestrial and aerial network infrastructures — an essential step toward next-generation global connectivity.

About Deutsche Telekom: Deutsche Telekom at a glance

Media Contact:

Lena Maasewerd
Telekom Blogger
media@telekom.de
+49 228 181 49494

SOURCE: Deutsche Telekom