Intel has announced the acquisition of German-based Linux consulting firm Linutronix, for an undisclosed sum. Led by CEO Heinz Egger and CTO Thomas Gleixner, Linutronix is the architect of PREEMPT_RT (Real Time) and the technology provider for industrial Linux.

Gleixner has been the principal maintainer of x86 architecture in the Linux kernel since 2008.

“By acquiring Linutronix, we are deepening our long-standing relationship with a highly respected team of globally recognized Linux experts, adding to the remarkable breadth and depth of Intel’s hardware and software talent. Linutronix will continue to operate as an independent business within our software division, led by Egger and Gleixner,” Mark Skarpness, Vice President and General Manager of System Software Engineering at Intel’s Software and Advanced Technology Group, said in a blog post.

Linutronix is comprised of a team of highly qualified and motivated employees with a wealth of experience and involvement in the ongoing development of Linux.