Amphenol Corp. announced Monday it will acquire CommScope’s Connectivity and Cable Solutions (CCS) division in a blockbuster $10.5 billion cash deal, a move set to reshape the global fiber optic and interconnect markets. The deal was unveiled with Latham & Watkins LLP advising Amphenol and Alston & Bird LLP representing CommScope, which is backed by private equity titan Carlyle Group.

Amphenol’s Expansion Into Fiber Optics and AI Markets

Amphenol, a Connecticut-based designer and manufacturer of electrical, electronic, and fiber optic connectors, said the acquisition will accelerate its reach in IT datacom, communications networks, and industrial applications.

The CCS unit operates across three core businesses:

• Data Center Connectivity Solutions: fiber optic interconnects for IT datacom, including artificial intelligence systems.

• Broadband Communications: fiber optic and interconnect products for communications networks.

• Building Connectivity Solutions: infrastructure interconnect systems integrated into current and next-generation industrial technologies.

“CCS’s portfolio of fiber optic solutions is highly complementary to Amphenol’s strong product base in IT datacom and AI applications,” said Amphenol CEO R. Adam Norwitt. “This deal not only broadens our offering in communications networks but also enhances our industrial market capabilities.”

CommScope Unlocks Value for Shareholders

CommScope, which expects to net $10 billion in proceeds after taxes and expenses, framed the deal as a strategic win.

“This transformational transaction unlocks shareholder value and strengthens our core businesses,” CommScope CEO Chuck Treadway said in a statement. “We are confident CCS will thrive under Amphenol’s leadership.”

CommScope was acquired by Carlyle in 2011 in a $3.9 billion transaction, and while Carlyle has reduced its stake, it continues to hold shares in the company.

Financing and Closing Timeline

Amphenol plans to fund the deal through a mix of cash on hand and debt financing. The acquisition is slated to close in the first half of 2026, pending regulatory approvals and standard closing conditions.

Legal Teams Behind the Billion-Dollar Transaction

The Latham & Watkins corporate team advising Amphenol included partners Charles Ruck, Andrew Elken, and Brian Umanoff, supported by specialists in finance, capital markets, intellectual property, tax, antitrust, data privacy, compensation, litigation, environment, and insurance.

CommScope’s legal counsel, Alston & Bird LLP, fielded a team led by partners Mark Kelly, Scott Kummer, and Peter Fritz.