Alcatel (Paris) finalized its acquisition of Packet Engines Inc. (Spokane, WA), a developer and manufacturer of Gigabit Ethernet and routing-switch technology. Completion was subject to the clearance from the Antitrust Division of the American Department of Justice and approval by Packet Engines`s shareholders, both of which have been received. The acquisition underscores Alcatel`s strategy to leverage its IP competence with closely controlled technologies and its commitment to expand its presence in the United States. Packet Engines will retain its name and continue to be based in Spokane.