(Telecompaper) Unified service delivery management specialist NetScout has agreed to buy Danaher's communications business for USD 2.6 billion in shares, creating a global provider of network management and cybersecurity systems. Danaher's communications business includes the market-leading brands of Tektronix Communications, Fluke Networks, and Arbor Networks. The data cabling tools business and carrier service provider tools business of Fluke Networks will be excluded from the transaction. Danaher's communications business generated USD 836 million in revenue for thr fiscal year to end December 2013, while NetScout generated USD 397 million in revenue for the fiscal year to end March. Following the sale, Danaher executive VP James Lico will join NetScout's board of directors. The current NetScout executive team will remain in place at the combined company, including co-founder and CEO Anil Singhal. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including obtaining regulatory and NetScout shareholder approval. The acquisition is expected to close next year. Until such time, the communications business will continue to operate separately from NetScout.