23 March 2006

"Smiths' PBL support is an integral part of our Systems Customer Services business," commented Dr. John Ferrie, President, Smiths Aerospace. "We also have performance based logistics contracts in place on the AV-8B, F-14, F/A-18, Tornado, Hawk, Eurofighter, H-60 Lamps and other military platforms."

Catherine Gridley, President, Smiths Aerospace Systems Customer Services added, "Our integrated support processes enable us to provide our customers with innovative total product life cycle cost management solutions. This is a core strength for Smiths and it is an area where we plan continued growth."

The contract covers the U.S. Navy fleet of 483 F/A-18 aircraft. The performance based logistics program provides the U.S. Navy with comprehensive equipment and support of the F/A-18 stores management system upgrade. Smiths' stores management system upgrade is standard equipment on the F/A-18 C-F variants, plus the EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft. It is also added as an update to older F/A-18 Hornets from Smiths', which added MIL-STD-1760 interface for more advanced weapons.

About the F/A-18:

The F/A-18 is a twin-engine, multi-mission, tactical aircraft. It converts between air-to-air fighter missions and air-to-ground strike missions while on the same sortie with the flick of a switch. Currently serving the armed services of eight nations, the F/A-18 fulfills the following types of assignment: fighter escort, suppression of enemy air defenses, reconnaissance, forward air control, close air support, and day and night strike missions.

About Smiths:

Smiths Aerospace, a part of Smiths Group, is a leading transatlantic aerospace systems and equipment company, with more than 11,000 employees and $2.2 billion revenues globally. 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 digital, electrical power, mechanical systems, engine components and customer services. www.geaviationsystems.com

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