10 February 2003

Dallas, TX - Smiths Aerospace was awarded a contract from Westland Helicopters Limited, an AgustaWestland company, to supply the rotor blade ice protection system for the EH101 aircraft. The first prototype was also just delivered to Westland from Smiths. Potential of more than 400 EH101 aircraft sales are forecasted worldwide. Deliveries from the Smiths Aerospace facility in Long Island will begin in July 2003 and continue through 2010.

About the Rotor Blade Ice Protection:

The Rotor Blade Ice Protection system is designed to protect the main and tail rotor blades in icing conditions. Electro-thermal heater mats protect the leading edge surfaces of the rotor blades. The microprocessor controlled rotor blade protection unit provides the control of the electrical energy for each heater element and monitors the system functionality. The system accepts information from outside air temperature sensors as well as other aircraft computers.

About the EH101:

EH101 orders have been secured with the United Kingdom, Italy, Canada, Denmark, Portugal and Japan. EH101 is under active consideration from a number of countries for a wide range of roles. The rotor blade ice protection system is likely to be utilized on all Search and Rescue EH101 helicopters operating in areas where there is a high icing probability.

About Smiths:

Smiths Aerospace is the leading transatlantic aerospace equipment company, with 12,000 staff and $2 billion revenue split equally between Europe and North America. Smiths Aerospace holds key positions in the supply chains on all major military and civil aircraft and engine manufacturers supplying integrated solutions. Strategically organized businesses focus on systems in electronics, actuation, detection, security, and marine, as well as precision components and Systems Customer Services.