21 January 2003

Smiths acquisition creates leading world supplier

of detection and security systems

21 January 2003 - Watford, England - Following regulatory approvals in Europe, Smiths Group has completed the acquisition of Heimann Systems to create a new world-leading business in detection and security systems to combat terrorist threats and illegal activities. Operating as part of the Smiths Aerospace division, Heimann Systems (now Smiths Heimann), joins with Smiths Detection to offer complementary technologies with the potential for integrated security and detection systems.

Smiths Detection, the world leader in trace detection of chemical and biological agents, explosives and narcotics will operate alongside Smiths Heimann, the world's largest supplier of x-ray security equipment. Airport security is a major focus for the combined offering and Smiths expects an increasing level of activity in protecting transportation systems, public buildings and other publicly accessed facilities.

"Civil and military authorities are demanding the most advanced security systems to safeguard our future and protect our way of life. Smiths can now meet that need through a unique combination of technologies, to provide products & services no other company is capable of supplying," commented John Ferrie, Group Managing Director of Smiths Aerospace.

For airports and other mass-transit systems, the new detection & security systems business of Smiths offers equipment both for checked baggage and carry-on bags, with the new Sentinel portal providing screening for passengers and staff. Full cargo checking systems mean that airports will need look no further than Smiths for virtually all airside security equipment. Research and Development is a major priority for Smiths who will invest substantially in new systems and new technologies, to keep ahead of the terrorist and the criminal.

Beyond these transport and public facility securi