26 April 2006

The North Finding Modules (NFMs) are being supplied as part of Raytheon's Improved Thermal Sighting System (ITSS) on the USMC LAV-25 life extension and for its related M1A1 Firepower Enhancement Program (FEP). An additional 160 North Finding Modules have been added, with another 50 - 60 NFMs forecasted to be ordered by the summer of 2006 for the balance of the M1A1 Firepower Enhancement Program. The combined ITSS/FEP North Finding Module program is valued at $20 million.

Raytheon's ITSS includes a second generation thermal infrared sensor, north finding module, laser rangefinder and computerized fire control system. ITSS provides the USMC with extended far target location and improved target identification capability. Smiths' North Finding Module (NFM) consists of an Inertial Reference Unit (IRU) that measures the earth's turn-rate to precisely determine a True North direction. This accurate pointing is then applied to achieve the ITSS Far Target Location (FTL) function. The Smiths' IRU has been selected for more than 40 military North Finding Module and Land Navigation System applications, such as main battle tanks, light armored vehicles, air defense systems and unmanned ground vehicles.

Smiths Aerospace is a leading transatlantic aerospace equipment and systems company, with more than 11,000 employees and $2 billion sales globally. Smiths Aerospace, a part of Smiths Group, 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 Systems Customer Services.

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