3 June 2003

Dr John Ferrie, Group Managing Director for Smiths Aerospace said: "This selection positions Smiths to grow as a major supplier and partner with Boeing for their next family of airplanes. We are keen to deliver enhanced value through the development of systems architectures utilising our key technologies".

The market potential for a new airplane of this size is forecasted at up to 3,000 units over the next 20 years. Boeing expects to formally offer the new airplane to customers in early 2004.