MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Sept. 23 -- Spectra-Physics has announced a long-term partnership with Jenoptik Laser, Optik, Systeme GmbH to produce, sell and service thin-disk lasers. The companies said the alliance will advance the development and introduction of novel thin-disk lasers that can accelerate materials processing applications and provide a cost-effective tool for scientific research. As part of the new partnership, the Jenoptik subsidiary will initially provide a green, 5-watt thin-disk laser and an air-cooled 8-watt Q-switched thin-disk laser to expand the Spectra-Physics solid-state laser portfolio. Spectra-Physics will gain access to thin-disk laser technology, and Jenoptik will gain access to broader markets through Spectra-Physics' worldwide distribution and service channels. "We're excited to team up with an innovative partner that complements our capabilities," said Guy Broadbent, president of Spectra-Physics. "This alliance aligns with our business strategy and our view of the photonics industry that emphasizes close collaborations among technology leaders to drive the innovation and commercialization of lasers in targeted applications. Not only can Jenoptik help enhance our current solid-state laser portfolio, we can jointly speed the development and introduction of new thin-disk laser technologies." Spectra-Physics is a wholly owned business of Thermo Electron Corp. Jenoptik Laser, Optik Systeme GmbH, is a wholly owned subsidiary of the technology group Jenoptik AG, of Jena, Germany. For more information, visit: www.spectra-physics.com