Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) and SM Optics have announced the transfer of the research and development activity responsible for optical multi-service node (OMSN) platforms  including the 1850 TSS product family and related network management systems to SM Optics, an Italy-based SIAE MICROELETTRONICA company.

As part of the transfer, 256 specialized R&D engineers and technicians currently based at Alcatel-Lucent's site in Vimercate, Italy, will be integrated into the SM Optics team, and in a second phase, 110 specialized R&D engineers and technicians currently based at Alcatel-Lucent's sites in Shanghai and Chengdu, China, will be integrated in another SIAE MICROELETTRONICA joint venture company in China. Under the terms of the agreement, Alcatel-Lucent will maintain responsibility for product strategy, manufacturing, and market-facing activities related to the technologies concerned.

Commenting on the agreement, Roberto Loiola, CEO and Managing Director of Alcatel-Lucent Italia, said, "Through this transfer of  R&D operations to SM Optics, Alcatel-Lucent will be able to maintain its full support for customers, leveraging the valuable experience and specialist expertise of the teams involved while ensuring future employment opportunities for those involved. At the same time, Alcatel-Lucent in Italy will focus on the strategic development of next-generation networking and access technologies, including WDM and wireless transmission."

Romano Valussi, a board member of SM Optics added "We are delighted with the agreement reached with Alcatel-Lucent, a major partner in the industry. The agreement enables the new company to maintain and enhance Alcatel-Lucent's huge installed base. In addition, thanks to the R&D agreement, we will reinforce our end to end capability which is a core strength of SIAE MICROELETTRONICA."

ABOUT SM OPTICS
SM Optics, founded in 2014, is a company driving innovation in fiber based communication, counting on a proven management and R&D team with 20+ years of experience in the optical domain. Liaising over an existent sales organization with a worldwide presence, as well as strong R&D and sales activity in China, SM Optics addresses all packet optical solution from converged backhauling for Fixed and Mobile operators to the Industry and Public Sector markets.

ABOUT SIAE MICROELETTRONICA
SIAE MICROELETTRONICA, founded in 1952, is a leader in wireless communication technology. Present in over 25 countries it offers to national and multinational operators advanced technological solution for microwave and millimetre wave transport, services and design. With a in-house advances RF knowledge from design to industrialization SIAE MICROELETTRONICA products bring innovation to the market satisfying the ever-changing market requirements and customers need. For more information: www.siaemic.com

Media Contacts for SM Optics and SIAE MICROELETTRONICA
FABIO GAVIOLI                       fabio.gavioli@siaemic.com                           T : +39 02 27325 340

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