WESTFORD, Mass. -- Unisphere Networks, Inc. today announced the signing of a definitive agreement with Siemens Information and Communications Networks (IC Networks) that will combine Unisphere Networks’ next generation voice business with Siemens’ SURPASS convergence portfolio to create a world leader in packet voice networks. Under the terms of the agreement, Unisphere Networks will spin off its next generation voice business, with operations in Westford, Mass. and Boca Raton, Fla., to be followed immediately by the combination of this business with Siemens IC Networks. The new unit will be headquartered in Westford, Mass., and is to be led by Eve Aretakis, former vice president and general manager of Unisphere Networks’ Voice Switching Business Unit. The boards of directors of both companies have approved the agreement and the transaction is expected to be completed in the second quarter of calendar year 2002.Combining the next generation voice technology and product portfolios of the two companies will further strengthen Siemens’ position to drive the evolution of packet voice networks. Unisphere Networks’ next generation voice products – the SMX-2100 Media Gateway and the SRX-3000 Softswitch – will be added to the Siemens SURPASS portfolio, creating a comprehensive range of products designed to meet the voice convergence needs of carriers and service providers. "This agreement enables Unisphere to focus on its award-winning, edge-optimized IP routing product suite," said Jim Dolce, president and CEO, Unisphere Networks. "Additionally, global distribution and joint marketing arrangements between Siemens IC Networks and Unisphere will combine Unisphere’s routing technologies with Siemens’ packet voice infrastructure solutions, enabling service providers to build robust, converged networks designed to meet the high quality standards of the public network."Unisphere Networks Inc.Siemens Information and Communications Networks Inc.