17 April 2002

Richard Thomas, president of Smiths Aerospace - ETG welcomed employees and guests to the new facility at a dedication ceremony today. Mr. Thomas indicated that the move will strengthen the company’s continuing commitment to customer responsiveness and deepen the relationships with its homeland defense and military customers in Harford County and throughout the nation. The technology and manufacturing capabilities of the new facility enable the business to respond even more rapidly to the changing demands of its growing customer base in support of the nation’s strategic defense readiness.

“This is a great technology company serving both APG and the private sector. We’ve worked hard to get them to come to Harford County, and now that they have, we promise to work closely with them as we recognize the important role Smiths Aerospace – ETG plays in homeland defense,” said Harford County Executive James M. Harkins.

Attending the ceremony were former Congresswoman Helen Delich Bentley, County Executive James M. Harkins, J. Thomas Sadowski, Economic Development Director, Smiths Group Chief Executive, Keith Butler-Wheelhouse, Smiths Aerospace Group Managing Director, John Ferrie, as well as Smiths Group board of directors.

The 90,000 square foot facility supports 145 employees who design and manufacture detection and protection systems. ETG has been a part of Smiths Aerospace since 1999.

Smiths Aerospace is the leading transatlantic aerospace equipment company, with half its 12,000 staff and $2 billion revenues in North America. Smiths Aerospace, a part of Smiths Group plc, holds key positions in the supply chains of all major military and civil aircraft and engine manufacturers and are world-leaders in electronic systems, actuation systems, detection & protection systems, and precision components.