24 March 2004

Smiths filed the autonomous aerial refuelling patent in the U.S. in October 2003. This innovative technology is both simple and robust in its application to both manned and unmanned aerial vehicles. This new technology may also be applied to the Australian 767 Tanker, with a decision planned by the Australian Government within the next month.

Dr. John Ferrie, Group Managing Director of Smiths Aerospace commented, "We are committed to providing the most capable refuelling systems. Our investment in this technology takes a fresh new approach to probe and drogue refuelling techniques and will permit autonomous refuelling for UAVs and UCAVs."

Smiths and Boeing are collaborating to provide essential technologies for the capability requirements identified by the USAF for refuelling UAVs and UCAVs. Boeing will concentrate its efforts on boom and receptacle technologies and Smiths will concentrate on the probe and drogue system, with common technologies shared. These advanced technologies increase the control and performance of refuelling systems beyond those currently fielded. The technology extends guidance capability to the drogue permitting it to be manoeuvred to enable autonomous refuelling of a UAV using the probe and drogue method. UAVs and UCAVs are introducing capabilities to the battlefield that will revolutionise warfare for the future, and they will require in-flight refuelling to maximise their potential.

About Smiths: Smiths Aerospace is the leading transatlantic aerospace equipment company, with more than 9,000 employees and $1.6 billion revenues split between Europe and North America. The company holds key positions in the supply chains of all major military and civil aircraft and engine manufacturers and is a world-leader in electronic and mechanical systems, engine components and Systems Customer Services.