Smiths Achieves Successful F-35 Electrical Power Management System Review: Manufacturing Begins Supporting More-Electric Architecture.

Business Editors

CHELTENHAM, England--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 20, 2004

Smiths Aerospace recently achieved successful critical design review status and has now entered manufacturing for the system supporting the F-35 more-electric architecture. The F-35 electrical power management system CDR took place at the Smiths facility in Cheltenham, where the system is produced.

"This marks a significant milestone toward the F-35 electrical power management system manufacture," commented Dr. John Ferrie, Group Managing Director for Smiths Aerospace. "It capitilises on Smiths experience in solid-state power distribution and control technology and supports the F-35 laboratory integration and first aircraft build beginning in 2004."

The review validates design approaches and allows the hardware and software commissioning to proceed. The EPMS will control and distribute primary, secondary and battery 28VDC, 270 VDC and 115 VAC power for the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

About Smiths: Smiths Aerospace is the leading transatlantic aerospace equipment company, with more than 9,000 staff and $1.6 billion revenues split between Europe and North America. 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 electronic and mechanical systems, precision components and customer services. www.smiths-aerospace.com