13 June 2005

Dr John Ferrie, President, Smiths Aerospace said, "This win continues to grow our leading share in the global market for stores management systems."

The programme includes Smiths new Universal Stores Control Unit (SCU) and will control stores for all types of new and existing fixed and rotary wing platforms without significant, if any, redesign. The stores management system provides a comprehensive system for the electronic control of integrated weapons management. This system is designed with standards to accommodate hundreds of current and future precision weapons, including MIL-STD-1760 compliant weapons. Smiths is working in partnership with Shinko Electric Company in Japan, with Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd as the prime contractor for the Japanese Defense Agency.

Smiths Aerospace is a leading transatlantic aerospace equipment and systems company, with more than 10,000 employees and $2 billion sales worldwide. Smiths Aerospace, a part of Smiths Group plc, holds key positions in the supply chains of all major military and civil aircraft and engine manufacturers and is a world-leader in digital computing, electrical power, mechanical systems, engine components and Systems Customer Services. www.geaviationsystems.com