RUCKUS Networks will begin manufacturing its ICX ethernet switches at parent company Belden’s facility in Pune, expanding its India operations beyond research, engineering and customer support into local production.
The move is among the first operational integrations between the two companies following Belden’s acquisition of RUCKUS Networks. Belden completed the $1.85 billion acquisition on July 1, adding RUCKUS’ Wi-Fi, enterprise switching and network management products to its networking portfolio.
The Pune facility will manufacture ICX ethernet switching products for customers in India, according to the company. RUCKUS did not disclose the production capacity, investment involved or the number of jobs expected to be created through the manufacturing expansion.
The company already has a sizeable engineering presence in India. Bengaluru is its largest global location for research and development and customer success, while Chennai houses an R&D centre established in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras Research Park.
The addition of manufacturing in Pune gives RUCKUS an India footprint covering product development, customer support and production.
“By bringing RUCKUS Networks into Belden’s local manufacturing footprint, we are building on our long-standing presence in India to better serve customers and support the country’s continued growth as a global hub for innovation and production,” Belden President and CEO Ashish Chand said.
RUCKUS Networks Senior Vice-President and General Manager Bart Giordano said local manufacturing would bring the company closer to customers and partners in India as organisations invest in new connectivity and digital infrastructure.
The company expects the local manufacturing capability to support demand from enterprises and public sector organisations, particularly in areas where domestic production and in-country support are part of procurement considerations.
The expansion also comes as networking and electronics companies increase local production in India under government programmes aimed at raising domestic manufacturing and value addition.
RUCKUS makes enterprise Wi-Fi, switching and network management products. Following the acquisition, Giordano joined Belden as Senior Vice-President and General Manager of RUCKUS and integration leader.
