Smiths Aerospace to supply key avionics systems for C-130 modernisation programme

Smiths Aerospace has been selected to supply key systems on the Boeing C-130 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) for more than 500 aircraft in U.S. Air Force service. Smiths Aerospace will supply the following systems valued at over $250 million, with additional opportunities in customer services:

• Flight Data Recorder/Cockpit Voice Recorder
• Flight Management System including the Communications Management Unit and the Terrain Awareness Warning System
• Multi-Function Control Displays
• Integrated Standby Instrument System
• Aircraft Interface Unit
• Mission Display Processor including Digital Map
• Electrical Power Generation Control & Conversion including the Generator Control Unit, Bus Switch Unit and Regulated/Transformer Rectifier Unit (R/TR TM).

Smiths Aerospace will shortly commence engineering development, which will take place for the next 3 years. The programme will be managed at the companys facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with product deliveries beginning in 2004.

Keith Butler-Wheelhouse, Chief Executive of Smiths Group commented "This important programme enables Smiths to continue its long and proud association with Boeing. The acceptance of the avionics technology we have developed, together with our integrated systems approach, are important for Smiths further success in the medium and long-term on both civil and military aircraft."

The Boeing Company will perform aircraft modifications at the Boeing Aerospace Support Center in San Antonio, Texas. The Air Force will also perform modifications at Warner Robins Air Logistics Center, Georgia and Ogden Air Logistics Center in Utah. Modification kit installations will begin in 2004 and continue through 2014, and will reach a rate of about 70 per year at peak production.

NOTES

The new avionics system for the C-130 features the proven flight management system from the B737 commercial airliner, which provides navigation, safety and communication improvements to meet Global Traffic Management requirements. Overall, the modernisation effort offers improved workload management for flight crews as well as reduced total ownership costs for the C-130 fleet.

The Boeing Company has been selected to perform the C-130 Avionics Modernisation Program, which has a total potential value of approximately $4 billion. Final contracts will be signed pending program approval by the Defense Departments Defense Acquisition Board.

"Our integrated flight management systems organisation provides the benefit of using the latest commercial technology to enhance military mission performance while maintaining airspace compatibility", said Mike Grady, vice president, Avionics Systems, Smiths Aerospace. "The systems approach of bringing our key product capabilities together, will continue to be a major strength in supporting our customers", commented Grady.

Smiths Aerospace supplies advanced electronic systems, components and actuation systems to the worlds major civil and military airframe manufacturers, airlines and armed forces. Smiths Group is also a leading supplier of sealing solutions, medical systems, and specialised industrial products.

ENDS