Nokia Siemens Networks to acquire Carrier Ethernet specialist ATRICA

Munich, Germany / Santa Clara, USA.-With the intended acquisition of the Carrier Ethernet expert ATRICA, Nokia Siemens Networks is continuing its investments in the development of solutions and products for data-optimized networks. ATRICA is one of the leading providers of Carrier Ethernet solutions for Metropolitan Area Networks. The acquisition will allow Nokia Siemens Networks to offer end-to-end Carrier Ethernet Transport solutions that reduce the cost and complexity of data-optimized transport networks – from access to the core network.

The 180 Carrier Ethernet specialists at ATRICA will continue their work as part of Nokia Siemens Networks. ATRICA’s main strengths are an end-to-end Ethernet solution know-how with a comprehensive portfolio including Ethernet, CPE and EGDE products as well as an associated services provisioning platform. ATRICA is the first company to be acquired by Nokia Siemens Networks. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California (U.S.) and with a development center in Tel Aviv (Israel) ATRICA has over 40 customers including Orange Business Services, KVH and Optimum LightPath.

“The products of ATRICA and Nokia Siemens Networks complement each other perfectly. With these systems, we can offer end-to-end solutions that no other vendor has,” said Bernd Schumacher, Head of IP Transport. “The solutions and products will help our customers cut the complexity and related costs of data-optimized networks.”

The market for Carrier Ethernet products is one of the fastest growing segments of the telecommunications market. Leading analysts forecast growth of 15% a year.

“Strategies, solution concepts and the technology philosophy of ATRICA and Nokia Siemens Networks are almost congruent, so we look forward to working together in the future. Our Carrier Ethernet systems will strengthen the portfolio of Nokia Siemens Networks,” noted Vivek Ragavan, Chairman of the Board of ATRICA Inc.

The acquisition is expected to take place before January 1, 2008 and is subject to customary regulatory approvals, the completion of standard closing conditions, and the agreement of a number of detailed implementation steps.