Sonus Networks, a Cloud communications provider, announced its deal to acquire Taqua, a supplier of IP communications systems to mobile and fixed operators, for $20 million.

Founded in 1998, Taqua enables the transformation of software-based service provider networks to deliver next-generation voice, video and messaging services, including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) and Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE).

Taqua has over 400 next-generation IP Voice systems deployed worldwide, supporting over 4 million subscribers.

Headquartered in Richardson, TX, with research and development facilities in Acton, MA; Hyannis, MA; San Jose, CA; and Richardson, TX, Taqua has approximately 80 employees.

Taqua posted $28.3 million revenue with 72.7 percent gross margin in 2015, and $25.2 million revenue with 68.7 percent gross margin in 2014.

Revenue of Taqua was $16.8 million for the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2016 with gross margin of 61 percent.

Taqua is expected to post revenue of between $4 million and $5 million in Q4 2016.

Sonus strategies

The acquisition is expected to accelerate Sonus’ mobile strategy by adding a Virtualized Mobile Core (VMC) Platform and an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) Service Core.

Taqua’s VMC combines standard functions required for VoLTE/VoWiFi solutions. Sonus Networks provides SBC and the Diameter Edge/Core Router.  This combination of products provides a complete solution for the evolving VoLTE / VoWiFi markets.

The acquisition is expected to expand Sonus’ fixed portfolio by adding a Class 5 Softswitch for Network Transformation projects and a Multimedia Controller used in IP Peering applications.

“The acquisition of Taqua adds to the top line opportunities for the current Sonus products in both the fixed line and mobile markets. Taqua’s Virtual Mobile Core (VMC) is compelling as it allows Sonus to increase penetration in the VoLTE and VoWiFi markets,” said Raymond Dolan, president and CEO of Sonus.

Baburajan K