Cost Of The Wedding: $110 Million

Smiths Group says it's taking over Integrated Aerospace Inc., a privately owned, California-based supplier of specialist landing gear systems, for $110 million.Integrated Aerospace is a leading, sole-source supplier of landing gear products for small aircraft including US military helicopters, fighter aircraft, business jets and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Examples include the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet and the UH-60 Black Hawk.

The company is also the technology leader in external fuel tanks for fighter aircraft and helicopters. Smiths chief executive, Keith Butler-Wheelhouse said: "This acquisition, our seventh in 2004, once again underlines Smiths' strategy of profitable growth through the acquisition of businesses with technologies and products which complement or expand our offering to the customer."

Commenting on the expansion of the business, Dr John Ferrie, group managing director of Smiths Aerospace said: "Integrated Aerospace is a strong addition to our actuation and aerial refueling systems businesses. This acquisition now enables Smiths to provide complete landing gear systems for helicopters, business jets and the rapidly expanding market for UAVs. It also significantly expands our capability in aerial refuel ling systems."In the 12 months to September 2004, the turnover of Integrated Aerospace totalled $50 million.

The acquisition is expected to complete in November, subject to regulatory approvals. S

FMI: www.smiths-group.com