Acquisition

Smiths Group PLC
03 February 2006

Smiths Group announced today that it has acquired the business and assets of
Lorch Microwave LLC, adding microwave filter technology to its electronic
components and subsystems Interconnect business.  Smiths Group has acquired the
business for $25 million from undisclosed private vendors, including $1 million
payable after 31 July 2007 contingent on certain conditions being met.

Commenting on the acquisition, Keith Butler-Wheelhouse, chief executive of
Smiths Group said: 'This is another step towards our goal of increasing the
range of technologies we can offer to our Interconnect customers.  Lorch fits
the Smiths Group mould perfectly, combining strong technology, an excellent
customer base and high quality management and employees.'

Based in Maryland USA and with 155 employees, Lorch designs and manufactures
filter components and integrated assemblies used in various microwave
applications including communication and defence systems.

Microwave filters are an essential component in microwave systems and Lorch has
a large portfolio of designs across multiple filter technologies that will give
Interconnect a significant position in this growing market segment.

John Langston, Group managing director of Smiths Specialty Engineering said: 'I
am delighted that we have acquired Lorch, which complements Smiths' other
Interconnect businesses, particularly TRAK Microwave.  Lorch will boost our
presence in the fast-growing military communications and electronic
countermeasures markets.'

The Interconnect part of Smiths Group's Specialty Engineering division is a
global supplier of components and subsystems for connecting, protecting and
controlling critical electronic and radio frequency systems for customers in the
wireless telecommunications, aerospace, defence, space and medical markets.

Smiths Group designs and manufactures safety critical systems and products and
has market-leading positions in aerospace systems, detection systems, medical
devices, mechanical seals and interconnect products.


Contacts

Media
Chris Fox                       [phone]

Investor Relations
Russell Plumley                 [phone]


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