WESTFORD, Mass. -- Sonus Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq: SONS) ("Sonus"), a global leader in securing cloud and real-time communications, and GENBAND, a leading provider of carrier and enterprise network transformation and real-time communications solutions, today announced a definitive agreement under which the two companies will combine to create a leader in next-generation communications networking, with increased scale and market reach across products, customers and geographies. Sonus and GENBAND shareholders will each own approximately 50% of the combined company. Based on the closing price of Sonus' common stock on May 22, 2017 of $7.79 and estimated net cash at the time of closing, the transaction values the combined company at an enterprise value of approximately $745 million.

The transaction combines Sonus' software-based leadership position in real-time communication virtualization, cloud-based session initiation protocol (SIP) and 4G/voice-over LTE solutions and security initiatives with GENBAND's network modernization, unified communications, and mobility and embedded communications solutions. Together, Sonus and GENBAND will be better positioned to enable network transformations to IP and cloud-based networks for communication service providers and enterprise customers worldwide, with a broader and deeper global sales footprint, increased ability to invest in growth, more efficient and effective R&D, and a comprehensive real-time communications product offering.

The two companies' combined 2016 revenue and EBITDA would have been approximately $680 million and $50 million, respectively, on a combined basis which excludes synergies and is prior to any impact from purchase accounting. The transaction is expected to be substantially accretive to Sonus' earnings per share in 2018. The combined company is expected to realize annual cost synergies of $40 million to $50 million by the end of 2018 and to drive solid cash flow from operations in the first year after closing. Following the full impact of expected annualized synergies, the combined company is expected to generate at least $100 million in annual EBITDA, with fiscal year 2020 EBITDA projected to be approximately $140 million.

Sonus Networks Inc. (Nasdaq: SONS)
Genband Inc.