20 July 2004

This win continues Smiths leadership position in thrust reverser actuation systems" commented Dr. John Ferrie, president for Smiths Aerospace. "We are pleased to participate in a forward-looking initiative to pave the way for the next generation of innovative aircraft systems."

About the thrust reverser actuation system (TRAS): Smiths TRAS awards in the last 3 years include the ARJ21 (CF34-10A), A318 (PW6000), ERJ 170 (CF34-8E), ERJ 190 (CF34-10E), Challenger 300 (AS907), Falcon 2000 EX (PW308) and Falcon F7X (PW307). This is the fourth major TRAS programme that Hurrel Hispano has chosen Smiths in the last 4 years. Smiths experience and the successful partnership with Hurel Hispano existing thrust reverser programmes, was a strong contributor to winning the POA electro-mechanical TRAS.

About the Power Optimised Aircraft (POA): The aim of POA is to identify, optimise and validate innovative aircraft equipment which contributes to the reduction in consumption of non-propulsive power. The participating European equipment systems suppliers will make their visions a reality in a novel configuration of virtual and real platforms.

The results of the effort will have a considerable effect on the way aircraft are designed and developed in the future, and a massive impact on the efficiency and power usage of an aircraft.

The latest in aircraft equipment technologies in four domains (engine systems, electrical power systems, actuation systems and pneumatic systems) will be integrated in the platforms, and a drastic reduction of non-propulsive energy usage will be validated. This will be achieved not through the traditional method of optimising individual systems, but by completely altering the way in which the architecture of aircraft systems is designed. This will allow the entire aeronautical supply chain to focus their technology and business strategies to address the needs of tomorrow's markets today.

About Smiths: Smiths Aerospace, a part of Smiths Group plc, is the leading transatlantic aerospace systems and equipment company, with more than 9,000 staff 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 are world-leaders in electronic and mechanical systems, precision components and Systems Customer Services. www.geaviationsystems.com