CHELMSFORD, Mass. -- Sonus Networks (Nasdaq: SONS), a leading supplier of service provider voice over IP (VoIP) infrastructure solutions, and Marcatel International, a leading provider of integrated communications services in Mexico, today announced that Marcatel has chosen Sonus' industry-leading Open Services Architecture (OSA) to deliver VoIP functionality over Marcatel's fiber optic network. To meet the growing demand for multi-media capabilities delivered through high-speed Internet connections, Marcatel plans to roll out VoIP offerings to businesses and cable operators in Mexico.

"Our agreement with Sonus is integral to our business strategy of delivering a comprehensive suite of voice and data services throughout Mexico," said Tim Heaney, Operations Director, Marcatel. "Leveraging Sonus' proven solutions, we are cost-effectively expanding our voice offerings into the enterprise and consumer markets by providing a full range of next-generation telephony services."

The first phase of the deployment will begin at one of Marcatel's main branches located in Monterrey where Marcatel is deploying the full Sonus solution, including the GSX9000(TM) Open Services Switch and the Insignus(TM) Softswitch. In this phase of the deployment, Marcatel will deliver access services to businesses and consumers by directly linking them to Marcatel's Sonus-based network. The Sonus platform will offer users a variety of standard local services that they have traditionally enjoyed through a circuit-based solution, but by delivering through an enhanced IP environment, they will have added flexibility to easily incorporate new features in the future. Based on the successful implementation in this region, Marcatel will deploy Sonus' packet voice infrastructure solutions in other markets as well.

"Recognizing the rapid growth in high-speed Internet connections, Marcatel is making the transition to delivering broadband access services," said Steve Edwards, chief marketing officer, Sonus Networks. "We are extremely pleased that Marcatel has selected Sonus as its partner to enter this new segment of the market. Sonus' voice over broadband solutions have been proven in major networks around the globe, and we are excited to bring these capabilities to Marcatel."

Sonus Networks Inc.