David M. Cote Becomes TRW Chief Executive Officer.

Business Editors

CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 1, 2001

David M. Cote, 48, today became the new chief executive officer of TRW Inc. (NYSE:TRW), pledging to focus his energies on leveraging the corporation's vast technologies, to improve the company's stock price, and to give the 100-year-old corporation the nimbleness to grow in the demanding global marketplace.

Cote assumed the CEO title from Joseph T. Gorman, who will remain as Chairman of TRW until his announced retirement.

"We have some tremendous assets in this company, both in terms of businesses and people," Cote said. "Clearly, our broad range of technologies, superb systems capabilities, and an established global presence are the keys to long-term, sustainable growth.

"The slowing economy undoubtedly will be a challenge, yet I see TRW as a company with many opportunities. The company's $3.5 billion systems and information technology business is serving an industry experiencing double-digit annual growth. With TRW components being used on both Boeing and Airbus platforms, the company's billion-dollar aircraft parts business is just magnificent. Our work on a complete integrated vehicle control system will provide our automotive customers with improved vehicle performance, safety, and comfort. And, demand continues to grow for technologies such as gallium arsenide and indium phosphide, which were developed by the scientists and engineers of our satellite business."

Cote also noted that among his top priorities are the reduction of the corporation's debt and the continuation of a strong cash flow. "Our approach to accomplishing those goals is clear--grow our businesses where we can and improve them where we must. Nevertheless, we will drive all of our businesses for maximum performance for customers, investors, and employees. That is something about which we will be unrelenting."

Cote was elected president and chief executive officer by the TRW board of directors in November 1999, when he also was named a director and member of the management committee. He joined TRW from General Electric, where he had served since 1996 as senior vice president of GE and president and chief executive officer of GE Appliances. His career with General Electric spanned 25 years and included top-level positions in manufacturing, finance, marketing, strategic planning, and general management.

TRW provides advanced-technology products and services for the aerospace, information systems, and automotive markets. The company, which is celebrating its 100th year of operation during 2001, had year-end 2000 sales of $17.2 billion. Company news releases can be found at www.trw.com.