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  • > Press & Media > Press releases > 2008

2008

11.04.2008
5,000 Sagem Défense Sécurité FELIN systems ordered for French army

PRESS RELEASE

Paris, April 11, 2008

On April 3, 2008, French defense procurement agency DGA, part of the Ministry of Defense, placed an order with Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) for 5,045 FELIN integrated infantry soldier equipment suites for the French army, worth 143 million euros.

Scheduled for delivery between mid-2009 and the end of 2010, these systems will equip five infantry regiments. This latest order follows the previous order in March 2006 for 1,089 systems for initial deployment by a French army regiment starting in mid-2009. It marks the launch of FELIN volume production.

Designed to replace the current infantry combat suites, the FELIN system is both modular and integrated. It improves infantrymen’s effectiveness and protection in all areas, including observation, communications, command, coordination and engagement.

“FELIN signals a step change in the individual and collective protection of French soldiers, as well as in their capabilities in any theater of operations,” noted SAFRAN Chief Executive Officer Jean-Paul Herteman. “Over and above our own success, SAFRAN is very proud to be contributing to the enhanced operational efficiency of French forces in the field.”

Sagem Défense Sécurité is equally capable of meeting the modernization requirements of armed forces in international markets. For instance, in November 2007 it was chosen to participate in the Swiss infantry modernization program IMESS (Integriertes Modulares Einsatzsystem Schweizer Soldat), along with EADS.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has more than 57,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

11.01.2008, Turbomeca
Turbomeca Limited becomes Turbomeca UK and enlarges its activities’ scope


Bordes, 11 January 2008

The UK site of Turbomeca, Turbomeca Limited based in Fareham, Hampshire, has officially changed its name to Turbomeca UK. Turbomeca UK is enlarging its accountability, regarding sales, marketing and technical support. It supports 2,000 engines operating in the UK market and has a current employee headcount of 180. Turbomeca UK is formed on the basis of the merger of Microturbo Ltd and Turbomeca Ltd. To cope with growing demand and to offer in country support, Turbomeca mandates Turbomeca UK for direct customer management.

Christian Hamel, the Chief Executive Officer of Turbomeca UK, declares: "The change of name was necessary for reasons of consistency since most of the other Turbomeca sites use the Turbomeca name followed by the area from which they operate. This new name will define each of us as a full member of a worldwide network. Furthermore, with an enviable industrial capability covering both Turbomeca and Microturbo products, the strength of the organisation is increasing through the skills-set of the workforce as well as the quality of product".

UK business

The UK is a major market for Turbomeca with sales to MoD and civil operators flying a variety of missions covering Offshore, EMS and Police support. The UK fleet of Turbomeca engines now comprises more than 750 in service on nearly 600 helicopters plus 350 RTM 322 engines, co-developed with Rolls-Royce and in use by all of the British Armed Forces. The UK Ministry of Defence is the largest single customer for Turbomeca UK, which provides starting systems on Hawk, Jaguar and Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft, the engines for the Stormshadow missile and co-manufactures the engines for the Spearfish heavyweight torpedo.

Turbomeca UK provides also main engines for Puma, Gazelle, as well and Jetstream aircraft in MoD service and in collaboration with Rolls Royce for the Hawk, Jaguar, Merlin and Apache.

Growing service capabilities

Turbomeca UK provides significant presence both for MRO and new parts manufacturing in the UK market. With the front office organisation newly established and its team of Field Support Representatives, Turbomeca UK is operational throughout the UK and Ireland providing support to the MoD for the two ranges of products, to BAe for Microturbo products, to the Offshore Operators and a growing number of UK civil operators for the Turbomeca turboshaft engines. This support network is key to the success of the organisation and is ready to adapt as an every increasing number of engines are repaired at the facility. It allows also Turbomeca UK employees to react to customers needs at the earliest possible opportunity ensuring the level of support received is in line with the level of service expected.

Turbomeca UK operates from a 7,000 square metre state-of-the-art facility supporting Arriel and Astazou operators and compliments the worldwide network of TurboSupport Centres providing a dedicated and unrivalled service to the UK and Irish markets. This capability and mindset of local people supporting local customers’ is a concept that has been significant in increasing customer satisfaction.

Turbomeca UK is a growing business with an entrepreneurial outlook and a willingness to embrace smart philosophies and new ways of operating. At the heart of this are the Customer Service teams working closely with their customers, be those offshore, military and civil, and the supporting business development and communication functions.

***

About Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 25 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr

PRESS RELEASE

09.01.2008, CFM International;
ACTS Signs Long-Term Material and Repair Agreements with GE and CFM


January 9, 2008.

MONTREAL (QUEBEC), CANADA; EVENDALE (OHIO), U.S.A.

ACTS today announced the signing of a 10 year OnPointSM solutions agreement with GE for material to repair CF34 engines, and a landmark 10 year materials agreement with CFM International (CFM) for the repair and overhaul of the CFM56-2, CFM56-3, CFM56-5A, CFM56-5B and CFM56-5C engines.
Worth an estimated US$2.5 billion, both agreements cover all life limited and non-life limited parts, as well as component repair and used materials for the GE and CFM engines that ACTS repairs.

"ACTS has been servicing GE and CFM engines for over 20 years. These agreements give ACTS enhanced access to OEM-produced parts and services at industry-competitive pricing, and support efforts to produce industry-leading turnaround times", said Chahram Bolouri, president and CEO of ACTS. "This is one more way ACTS is improving its total offering to customers."

"This material agreement will enable ACTS to offer high-quality OEM parts and repairs to its CF34 MRO customers", said Brad Mottier, vice president and general manager of Services for GE Aviation. "We are very excited to work with ACTS and look forward to growing this relationship."

GE’s OnPointSM solutions are flexible, long-term commitments designed to meet customers’ unique engine services needs. Backed by GE’s world-class support, these solutions help lower customer cost-of-ownership and maximize the use of their assets. Available OnPointSM services include overhaul, on-wing support, new and used serviceable parts, component repair, technology upgrades, engine leasing and diagnostics.

"We are delighted that an MRO organization of the stature of ACTS has chosen to bring the benefits of genuine CFM parts to its operations and to its customers", said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM. "This is the largest materials agreement we have signed to date and we look forward to forging a strong bond and a great working relationship with ACTS over the next decade and beyond."

***

CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric.

GE Aviation, an operating unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of commercial and military jet engines and components as well as integrated digital, electric power, and mechanical systems for aircraft. GE Aviation also has a global service network to support these offerings.

ACTS is one of the industry’s leading independent full-service maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service providers to the airline industry.
Originally formed as the in-house maintenance division of Air Canada, ACTS has since become a leading provider of MRO services to third-party customers worldwide. ACTS has developed an industry-wide reputation for exceptional quality with the broadest portfolios in the industry encompassing comprehensive airframe, engine and component maintenance, as well as a wide range of supply chain management services. ACTS services customers from around the world and operates major maintenance centers in Canada and El Salvador with a workforce of approximately 4,600 employees.
ACTS is headquartered in Montreal. For more information, please go to

OnPointSM is a service mark of General Electric Company.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.ge.com/aviation | www.acts.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.01.2008, Sagem-Interstar
SAGEM Open Line – plug & play fax server – now available in North America following success in Europe


Montreal, Canada, January 14, 2008

SAGEM Open Line provides a secure solution for fax and document management as well as archiving. Compatible with multifunction peripherals (MFPs), it can boost productivity by as much as 90%.

Sagem-Interstar Inc. (SAFRAN Group) announced today that SAGEM Open Line – the field-proven, “plug & play” network fax server appliance – is now available in North America. SAGEM Open Line offers enterprises a comprehensive solution for all their faxing and archiving needs.
The all-in-one, turnkey SAGEM Open Line appliance (which can be placed on a desk or mounted on a rack) plugs quickly into any work environment so users can send, receive, scan, index, and automatically archive incoming and outgoing documents. Documents can be retrieved using full-text or multi-criteria search capabilities. The solution is scalable from 2 to 24 fax channels, accommodating light to heavier fax traffic.

SAGEM Open Line distinguishes itself with productivity-improvement features, such as:

  • Desktop faxing (inbound and outbound): SAGEM Open Line enables users to send and receive faxes from email clients such as Microsoft Outlook and Lotus Notes, as well as other Microsoft Office or enterprise business applications.
  • Automated faxing: Open Line allows faxing through integration with third-party business applications without any software development or programming required.
  • Outbound fax approvals: All business-critical outbound faxes, such as purchase orders or quotes, can be automatically routed to the appropriate manager to approve or reject.
  • Efficient document search and archiving: Open Line indexes and archives all faxed, scanned and stored documents. This allows for easy retrieval through Open Line’s full-text or multi-criteria search capabilities. SAGEM Open Line also offers security features that enable documents to be forwarded to either public or private folders.
  • Integration with any MFP: Fully integrates with industry-leading MFPs and copiers through native integration (OKI and Muratec), proprietary connectors (Canon and Sharp) and standard T.37 protocols (Xerox, HP, Ricoh, and Toshiba).
  • High-end hardware components: Server-class solution with hot swappable hard drives for 24/7 reliability and support service within 24 hours.

SAGEM Open Line holds a very solid track record in Europe with thousands of systems deployed in major enterprises and organizations in diverse sectors ranging from humanitarian to banking and industry. These customers manage a daily volume of several thousand faxes, which are easily transmitted, scanned, tracked, archived and retrieved because of Open Line. The solution enables significant customer service improvements and rapid ROI.

“SAGEM Open Line has experienced unrivalled success in the European SMB and large enterprise fax server market due to proven reliability and unsurpassed functionalities,” said Jean Champagne, General Manager of Sagem-Interstar. “With innovative features such as full-text search, OCR fax processing and routing, as well as automatic archiving, Open Line is well poised for similar sales success and popularity in North America. Its numerous interoperability options allow for quick and seamless integration in virtually any business environment.”

Read more about Open Line features and benefits at: http://www.faxserver.com/fax-hardwa...

***

About Sagem-Interstar Inc.

Sagem-Interstar Inc., the North American subsidiary of Sagem Communications (SAFRAN Group [Paris: SAF.PA]; www.safran-na.com), is the global leader in boardless T.38 Fax over IP (FoIP) fax server solutions for VoIP networks.

Sagem-Interstar is well known for its award-winning XMediusFAX® (boardless T.38 FoIP) and LightningFAX® (for legacy fax boards) fax server software, catering to enterprise, government and service provider accounts of all sizes in more than 40 countries. Sagem-Interstar has been “Changing the Way You Fax” with software-only FoIP since 2002.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.faxserver.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.01.2008, CFM International
China’s Spring Airlines Selects CFM56-5B to Power A320 Fleet


EVENDALE, Ohio - January 16, 2008

China’s Spring Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to purchase CFM56-5B engines to power its new fleet of 10 Airbus A320 aircraft in an engine order valued at approximately $170 million at list price, including spare engines. The airline is scheduled to begin taking delivery in March 2009.

CFM56-5B engines are a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint venture between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company and the world’s leading supplier of commercial aircraft engines.

Spring Airlines, the first low cost carrier in China, is headquartered in Shanghai. As a subsidiary of the Spring International Travel Service Ltd., one of the leading travel service providers in China, the airline began operation in 2005 and has been profitable since then with passenger load factor as high as 95% and its CFM56 fleet has kept a very high safety standard. In addition to the purchased A320s, the airline has also signed an agreement to lease 12 additional CFM56-5B-powered Airbus A320 aircraft, which are scheduled for delivery between 2009 and 2012..

"We’re pleased to continue our relationship with CFM International and are very satisfied with the excellent performance of CFM56 engines," said Wang Zhenghua, Chairman of Spring Airlines. "The engine’s low cost of ownership has been a strong contributor to our ability to implement a long-term growth strategy."

"We are obviously honored by Spring Airlines’ continued confidence in the CFM56 product line," said Eric Bachelet, President and CEO of CFM International, "We look forward to growing and improving this relationship for many more years to come."

The CFM56-5B is the engine of choice for the Airbus A320 family and is popular with major airlines, low-cost carriers, and leasing companies alike. Nearly 3,000 CFM56-5B engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet is growing at a rate of about 40 engines per month. Primary factors behind the engine’s broad-based customer acceptance include this industry’s best reliability, durability, low cost of ownership, and world-class customer and product support. The CFM56-5B is the only engine that can power every model of the A320 family, from the small A318 up to the A321, with the same bill of materials.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.01.2008, Snecma Propulsion Solide
Snecma Propulsion Solide creates Aeronautics and Composites Division


Le Haillan, January 16, 2008

Snecma Propulsion Solide has made a firm commitment to expanding the use of its composite materials to the aviation sector. Reflecting this new strategic direction, on January 1st the company created an Aeronautics and Composites division, headed by Olivier Le Merrer and reporting to the Chairman and CEO.

Snecma Propulsion Solide intends to leverage its expertise in the design and production of composite materials to expand their use on aircraft and win new contracts.

Starting more than 40 years ago, Snecma Propulsion Solide has developed families of advanced composite materials, originally designed for missiles, then used on launchers and other applications. In addition to creating a multidisciplinary network of university research labs, Snecma Propulsion Solide has deployed the production and R&D facilities – some of them the only ones of their kind in the world – needed to meet evolving market requirements. For instance, a technology originally developed for rocket motors has now made SAFRAN the world leader in carbon brakes for commercial jetliners.

Through this new division, Snecma Propulsion Solide bolsters its ability to meet the needs of its civil, military and government clients, in each of its core businesses. It will also facilitate the creation of industrial or commercial partnerships.

***

Snecma Propulsion Solide (SAFRAN Group) is the European leader in the design and production of solid rocket motors, and also designs and produces the nozzles for Europe’s heavy-lift Ariane 5 launcher and Vega light launcher, via Europropulsion, an equally-owned subsidiary of SAFRAN and Avio. Snecma Propulsion Solide provides solid propulsion systems for all ballistic missiles in France’s nuclear deterrent force, through G2P, a joint venture owned 75% by Snecma Propulsion Solide and 25% by SNPE Matériaux Energétiques. As the SAFRAN Group’s center of excellence in thermostructural composites, Snecma Propulsion Solide has earned global recognition for composites used in aerospace, defense and industrial applications.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma-propulsion-solide.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.01.2008, SAFRAN
A new shareholder for Sagem Communications - SAFRAN finalizes transfer to The Gores Group


Paris, January 17, 2008

SAFRAN and The Gores Group have finalized the acquisition by The Gores Group of the company Sagem Communications for 383 millions euros.

The transfer agreement was signed on January 16, following consultations with all unions and after receiving the necessary authorizations from French and European authorities. The transaction will take effect on January 25.

At that time, The Gores Group will be the majority shareholder in Sagem Communications. Among the minority shareholders, about 20% of the capital will be held by a group of employees and management, and 10% by SAFRAN.

Sagem Communications’ core businesses are broadband communications and convergence activities, including printing terminals, digital TV set-top boxes, broadband and residential terminals, telecom systems and partnerships.

The company has 6,500 employees worldwide, and posted sales of 1.2 billion euros in 2007.

Xavier Lagarde, a member of the SAFRAN Executive Board and head of the Group’s Communications branch, said: “The Gores Group can provide Sagem Communications with the resources needed to develop its business and seize current market opportunities, enabling it to reach critical mass and play a top-tier role in the global market.”

Jean-Paul Herteman, Chief Executive Officer of SAFRAN, said: “We are satisfied with this solution, since it protects the interests of both SAFRAN’s shareholders and the customers and employees of Sagem Communications. This transaction is a first step in the refocusing of SAFRAN’s business on its three growth markets, namely aerospace, defense and security.”

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has more than 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

21.01.2008, Sagem-Interstar
Sagem-Interstar enhances IBM’s System I Unified Communications platforms with boardless IP fax technology


Lotusphere 2008 – Booth 501-504 (Orlando, FL), January 21, 2008

Sagem-Interstar’s market-leading XMediusFAX T.38 Fax over IP (FoIP) fax server will enhance the Unified Communications solutions provided by Nortel and 3Com on the IBM System i business computing platform.

Sagem-Interstar (www.faxserver.com), the global leader in boardless IP fax solutions for VoIP networks since 2002, announced today that a new Linux version of its award-winning XMediusFAX T.38 Fax over IP (FoIP) server technology will be globally available on April 30, 2008 for integration with the IBM System i (formerly AS/400 and iSeries) platform and Unified Communications environments provided by Nortel and 3Com.

The integration of Sagem-Interstar’s XMediusFAX FoIP technology on IBM System i Unified Communications platforms from Nortel and 3Com, will empower users with robust and secure desktop faxing capabilities. SMB or large-enterprise users will be able to easily send and receive faxes directly from their Lotus Notes or Microsoft Exchange email clients. XMediusFAX also integrates with enterprise applications such as SAP, Siebel and Oracle to enable automated faxing. Faxes are easier to track, manage and archive, facilitating productivity boosts, improved collaboration and audit trails for regulatory compliance.

“At IBM, we believe in encouraging the development and support of products for System i that offer critical business systems for our customers, enabling them to better leverage their IBM System i infrastructure,” said Mike Rousseaux, UC Offering Manager for IBM System i. “Sagem-Interstar’s XMediusFAX brings a very elegant, fully integrated fax solution to System i customers that complements our Unified Communications solution for IBM System i and Lotus Domino systems. Faxing is still a vital, legally binding means of B2B communication, and with XMediusFAX, you will dramatically reduce communications costs and streamline business processes.”

“Our XMediusFAX T.38 FoIP technology pioneered the boardless IP fax market in 2002. It is the most widely tested and field-proven FoIP solution in the industry,” said Jean Champagne, General Manager of Sagem-Interstar. “Our integration for the IBM System i Unified Communications systems provides a very robust and cost-effective solution for faxing, voice, email, calendaring, instant messaging and collaboration.”

About XMediusFAX® FoIP

As a completely software-based (boardless) fax server solution, Sagem-Interstar’s XMediusFAX enables rapid fax delivery and fax broadcasting at the desktop. XMediusFAX boardless T.38 FoIP technology:

  • Offers seamless iPBX integration and virtual machine support (i.e. VMware)
  • Provides the most advanced T.38 FoIP integration for all major VoIP gateways
  • Is highly scalable to a large number of enterprise-class users by simply licensing extra channels – no extra hardware or third-party kits required
  • Addresses the “fax problem” in IP networks of costly, dedicated analog fax lines, equipment, maintenance and supplies
  • Routes sensitive documents to users in TIFF or PDF format via the security of VoIP networks to approved recipients and designated secure printers, thereby facilitating compliance with regulations such as HIPAA, Sarbanes-Oxley, and Payment Card Industry (PCI).

* The estimated date for general availability of XMediusFAX Linux for IBM System i Unified Communications is April 30, 2008.

***

About IBM
For information about IBM System i, visit www.ibm.com or www.ibm.com/systemi.

About Sagem-Interstar Inc.
Sagem-Interstar Inc., the North American subsidiary of Sagem Communications (SAFRAN Group [Paris: SAF.PA]; www.safran-na.com), is the global pioneer and leader in boardless T.38 Fax over IP (FoIP) fax server solutions for VoIP networks.

Sagem-Interstar is well known for its award-winning XMediusFAX® (boardless T.38 FoIP) and LightningFAX® (for legacy fax boards) fax server software, catering to enterprise, government and service provider accounts of all sizes in more than 40 countries. Sagem-Interstar has been “Changing the Way You Fax” with software-only FoIP since 2002. Visit Sagem-Interstar’s website at: www.faxserver.com.

* This release contains “forward-looking statements” as defined under the Federal Securities Laws. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of certain risk factors, including but not limited to: (i) adverse changes in general economic or market conditions; (ii) delays or reductions in consumer or information technology spending; (iii) competitive factors, including but not limited to pricing pressures and new product introductions; (iv) the transition to new products, the uncertainty of customer acceptance of new product offerings and rapid technological and market change; (v) insufficient, excess or obsolete inventory; (vi) war or acts of terrorism; (vii) the ability to attract and retain highly qualified employees; (viii) fluctuating currency exchange rates; and (ix) other one-time events and other important factors disclosed previously and from time to time by Sagem-Interstar. Sagem-Interstar disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements after the date of this release.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.faxserver.com | www.ibm.com

PRESS RELEASE

21.01.2008, Sagem-Interstar
Sagem-Interstar to showcase award-winning XMediusFAX and SAGEM ATAs at European Cisco event


Montreal, Canada, January 21, 2008

Sagem-Interstar demonstrates its pioneering T.38 boardless IP fax server software this week in Spain and unveils another new product for customers migrating to VoIP.

Sagem-Interstar Inc. (SAFRAN Group), the global leader in boardless IP fax software for VoIP networks since 2002, announced today that it will showcase its award-winning XMediusFAX Fax over IP (FoIP) server technology at the prominent Cisco Networkers 2008 conference (Booth E68), being held January 21 to 24 in Barcelona, Spain.

Launched in September 2007, XMediusFAX Release 5.5 is the VoIP industry’s first fax server to interoperate with Cisco MGCP VoIP gateways, in addition to offering SIP and H.323 support. XMediusFAX 5.5 features enhanced Active Directory integration, as well as support for VMware, XML metadata, and Cisco MGCP VoIP gateways.

As a Cisco Technology Developer Partner and a technology leader in the Cisco VoIP community, Sagem-Interstar exhibits at Cisco events worldwide. With thousands of deployments in more than 40 countries, the Cisco Compatible XMediusFAX prevails in the global market as the fax server with the largest number of boardless T.38 FoIP integrations with Cisco equipment.

Also featured at this event will be a sneak peek at the SAGEM Fax ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter) 101S – a new product for customers migrating to VoIP and who want to leverage investments in existing analog fax devices. The SAGEM Fax ATA 101S enables companies to protect investments in fax machine fleets and to eliminate analog connectivity requirements, while gradually transitioning to MFP devices that tightly integrate with central IP fax server solutions like XMediusFAX.

“This conference gives us yet another opportunity to demonstrate our technology leadership in the Cisco VoIP community,” said Jean Champagne, General Manager of Sagem-Interstar. “From our market-dominating XMediusFAX IP fax server to the new SAGEM Fax ATA 101S, we’re providing customers with the industry’s most cost-effective, state-of-the-art fax solutions for full and seamless integration within Cisco-powered Unified Communications environments.”

About XMediusFAX FoIP and Cisco MGCP

XMediusFAX caters to organizations of any size. Whether they have deployed or plan to deploy a VoIP telephony infrastructure, XMediusFAX enables organizations to FAXimize their Cisco IP network. Field-proven to manage large fax volumes and deliver high levels of reliability and availability, XMediusFAX connects to Cisco voice gateways via SIP or H.323. XMediusFAX is tested compatible with Cisco’s T.38 Fax Relay via the following Cisco VoIP gateways: 1700, 1800, 2600, 2800, 3600, 3700, 3800, 7200, 7300, and 7600 CMM Series; and AS5300, AS5400, and AS5800 Series.

***

About Sagem-Interstar Inc.
Sagem-Interstar Inc., the North American subsidiary of Sagem Communications (SAFRAN Group [Paris: SAF.PA]; www.safran-na.com), is the global pioneer and leader in boardless T.38 Fax over IP (FoIP) fax server solutions for VoIP networks.

Sagem-Interstar is well known for its award-winning XMediusFAX® (boardless T.38 FoIP) and LightningFAX® (for legacy fax boards) fax server software, catering to enterprise, government and service provider accounts of all sizes in more than 40 countries. Sagem-Interstar has been “Changing the Way You Fax” with software-only FoIP since 2002.

* This release contains “forward-looking statements” as defined under the Federal Securities Laws. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of certain risk factors, including but not limited to: (i) adverse changes in general economic or market conditions; (ii) delays or reductions in consumer or information technology spending; (iii) competitive factors, including but not limited to pricing pressures and new product introductions; (iv) the transition to new products, the uncertainty of customer acceptance of new product offerings and rapid technological and market change; (v) insufficient, excess or obsolete inventory; (vi) war or acts of terrorism; (vii) the ability to attract and retain highly qualified employees; (viii) fluctuating currency exchange rates; and (ix) other one-time events and other important factors disclosed previously and from time to time by Sagem-Interstar. Sagem-Interstar disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements after the date of this release.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.faxserver.com | www.safran-na.com

PRESS RELEASE

23.01.2008, SAFRAN
Management appointments at SAFRAN


Paris, January 23, 2008

Emeric d’Arcimoles, 59, has been named Executive Vice President, International Affairs, effective April 1, 2008.

Olivier Andries, 45, has been named Executive Vice President, Strategy, effective March 1, 2008.

Dominique Hédon, 57, has been named special advisor to the CEO, effective March 1, 2008.

Françoise Descheemaeker will be nominated as Chairman and CEO of Safran Conseil. The Board of Directors of this company will make a decision on this nomination, to take effect on April 1, 2008. Ms Descheemaeker is also named director of sponsorships, as of this same date, and will therefore be nominated as president of the Safran Foundation.

François Courtot, 59, has been named Vice President, Institutional Affairs and Major Accounts, South Regions (in particular for Airbus and Eurocopter). He will report to Dominique-Jean Chertier, Executive Vice President and member of the Executive Board. This appointment will take effect on April 1, 2008.

Hélène Séguinotte has been named National Executive Safran Canada, effective July 1, in addition to her position as Chief Executive Officer of Turbomeca Canada.

Bruno Bernard, 51, has been named Vice President, Improvement Initiatives, effective February 1, 2008. He will report to Marc Ventre, Executive Vice President, Aerospace Propulsion branch and Production division.

Gilles Bouctot, 48, has been named Deputy to the Executive Vice President, Aircraft Equipment branch, in charge of Strategy and Operations. This appointment takes effect on February 1, 2008.

Benoît Gosset, 53, has been named Deputy to the Executive Vice President, Aerospace Propulsion branch, effective January 1, 2008.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has more than 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.01.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité delivers 100,000th biometric data acquisition station


Paris, 24th January 08

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) is currently delivering biometric data acquisition stations for Bahrain’s national ID card program. With this contract, Sagem Sécurité has now delivered 100,000 of these stations worldwide.

Sagem Sécurité’s acquisition stations record biometric facial recognition and fingerprint data, to guarantee the delivery of highly secure identity documents. Because these stations comply with all international standards, they have already been used to register personal data for more than 200 million people in some 60 countries.

With the delivery of its 100,000th acquisition station, Sagem Sécurité confirms its world leadership in this market and pivotal position in the field of secure identity management. Its range of proven, reliable solutions gives the company a unique competitive advantage, enabling it to quickly adapt to the specific requirements of each customer, while remaining at the cusp of technology.

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Among the leading European security systems companies, it is present in four main areas: biometric systems, where it is the worldwide leader in fingerprint-based biometrics; secure terminals for access control, payments and gaming; road safety equipment and smart cards.
Its products and integrated systems are used worldwide, helping to ensure transport safety, data and personal security and governmental safety capabilities at the highest level. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

25.01.2008, SAFRAN
Appointments at SAFRAN Group companies


Paris, January 25, 2008

Pierre Fabre, 54, will be nominated as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Turbomeca. The company’s Board of Directors will make a decision on this appointment, which will take effect on March 1, 2008.

Christian Mari, 56, has been named Chief Operating Officer of Messier Bugatti, effective March 1, 2008.

Gérard Le Page, 53, will be nominated as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Teuchos. The company’s Board of Directors will make a decision on this appointment, which will take effect on March 1, 2008.

Patrick Samier, 54, has been named Executive Vice President, Sagem Avionics division, effective April 1, 2008, Current division head Christian Jaeger is retiring.

Joël Berkoukchi, 42, will be nominated as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Messier Services International. The company’s Board of Directors will make a decision on this appointment, which will take effect on February 1, 2008.

****

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has 57,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

06.02.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité to supply Tiger helicopters with STRIX optronic systems


Paris, February 6, 2008

Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) received an order from OCCAR(*) for STRIX observation and sighting systems for 64 Tiger HAD European combat helicopters in France and Spain.

The first deliveries will take place in 2009.

With high-performance optronic sensors, the STRIX gyrostabilized system will provide the Tiger HAD with observation, identification and engagement capacities at long range both day and night.

The system will enable all the Tiger’s weapons to be used, including anti-tank missiles. It will have a dual-mode laser designator for laser-guided weapons and telemetry with ocular security for observed targets to complement the high-resolution day/night sensors.

This order confirms Sagem Défense Sécurité’s position as a European leader in sights for combat helicopters. The company produces all the STRIX and OSIRIS observation and sighting systems for all the versions of Eurocopter’s Tiger (HAP, HAD, UHT, ARH). Sagem Défense Sécurité’s optronic systems and equipment, which are used on new aircraft or for modernizing airplanes and helicopters in service, cover all the operational needs for all types of platforms operating in the most demanding environments.

(*) Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Organized in two divisions, Sagem Avionics and Sagem Optronics and Defense, Sagem Défense Sécurité is a world leader in its core businesses. The Sagem Avionics Division covers two main sectors: inertial navigation, where it is No. 1 in Europe and No. 3 worldwide; and aircraft systems, including world leadership in helicopter flight controls.
The Sagem Optronics and Defense Division designs and develops thermal vision equipment and air-land systems, and is the European leader in surveillance and fire control optronics. Through SAFRAN, Sagem Défense Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

11.02.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité to supply Malaysia with naval optronic systems


Paris – February 11, 2008

Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) has signed a contract to supply several VIGY 10 Mk III optronic systems to modernize the MMEA’s (Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency) surface ships.

The contract also includes training operators and maintenance for the systems, which will be delivered mid-2008.

Faced with intense international competition, VIGY 10 Mk III’s performance (range, image quality, gyrostabilized sighting, ease of use) was crucial in MMEA’s choice to reinforce its resources for rescue operations, policing and fighting criminal activity in Malaysia’s territorial waters.

VIGY 10 Mk III is a day/night optronic surveillance system developed and produced by Sagem Défense Sécurité to meet the needs of light vessels.

Sagem Défense Sécurité has provided naval forces in over 30 countries with more than 600 optronic units and systems. This contract confirms its position as a worldwide leader. The company offers surface ships and submarines equipment and systems that are capable of meeting a wide array of needs: navigation, alerts, surveillance, reconnaissance, engagement and self-protection.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Organized in two divisions, Sagem Avionics and Sagem Optronics and Defense, Sagem Défense Sécurité is a world leader in its core businesses. The Sagem Avionics Division covers two main sectors: inertial navigation, where it is No. 1 in Europe and No. 3 worldwide; and aircraft systems, including world leadership in helicopter flight controls. The Sagem Optronics and Defense Division designs and develops thermal vision equipment and air-land systems, and is the European leader in surveillance and fire control optronics. Through SAFRAN, Sagem Défense Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

04.02.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité to provide Interpol and its 186 member states with latest AFIS, Automated Fingerprint Identification System


Paris, February 4th, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) and Interpol announced today that Sagem Sécurité will supply Interpol and its 186 member states with the latest version of its automated fingerprint identification system, MetaMorpho™. Today’s announcement is part of a detailed agreement signed on Jan.10.

“More highly automated searches give the end-user more control over the process,” explained Mark Branchflower, head of the fingerprint unit at Interpol. “This means that each national office will be able to develop its own work process, signaling real progress for Interpol and its member-states.”

According to Jean Michel Louboutin, executive director of police services at Interpol, “Fingerprint identification is the process the most widely used by police forces around the world. Interpol must ensure that these forces are using the latest technologies to identify terrorists and criminals.”

“We are both proud and honored to have signed this exemplary partnership agreement with Interpol,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “It gives Interpol and each of its 186 member-states direct access to state-of-the-art identification technologies. It also reflects our close collaboration and long-standing privileged relationship with Interpol.”

The advanced technology offered by Sagem Sécurité played a decisive role in Interpol’s choice, because it sets the global standard in fingerprint recognition. With this latest contract, Sagem Sécurité confirms its world leadership in fingerprint ID systems, and its top-tier role in biometric ID systems.

*INTERPOL is the world’s largest international police organization, with 186 member countries. Created in 1923, it facilitates cross-border police co-operation, and supports and assists all organizations, authorities and services whose mission is to prevent or combat international crime.

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Among the leading European security systems companies, it is present in four main areas: biometric systems, where it is the worldwide leader in fingerprint-based biometrics; secure terminals for access control, payments and gaming; road safety equipment and smart cards.

Its products and integrated systems are used worldwide, helping to ensure transport safety, data and personal security and governmental safety capabilities at the highest level. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

29.01.2008, Snecma
Snecma announces Silvercrest’s first successful test results


Courcouronnes, France – January 29, 2008

Snecma (SAFRAN Group) today announced the first, positive results from its Silvercrest core engine demonstrator test program. To date, the core engine has completed 35 hours of combustion testing, achieving all expected performance objectives.

The test campaign began last December in Snecma’s Villaroche, France test facility, on a dedicated rig for core testing. These tests will enable Snecma to validate the design and core performance as well as overall integration.

Tests performed as of today have assessed the overall compressor performance as well as combustor performance and HPT efficiency. Tests also checked the overall dynamic behaviour characteristics.

Ignition and initial run reached up to 19,800 rpm, which represents 85% of take-off thrust. Other successful results included: rotor blade dynamic characteristics, high-pressure compressor (HPC) and high pressure turbine (HPT) tip clearances and compressor pressure ratio and stall margins. A total of 660 real time parameters are monitored during the tests. The test campaign is planned to continue until March.

“We committed early 2006 that we would run a core engine end of 2007. We did it and we are seeing outstanding results, fully in line with our expectations. We are very pleased with the success of this first series of tests”, said François Planaud, Snecma executive vice president, commercial engines. “Snecma is the first engine manufacturer to run a core engine demonstrator to validate a brand new engine concept in this market segment. It marks a major step toward the continuation of this program, and the optimization of the engine design.”

The Silvercrest engine family, developing 9,500 to 12,000 lb of thrust, is intended for super-midsize to large business jets. It will bring spectacular advances in performance, reliability and environmental friendliness over current generation engines. The typical application of the Silvercrest engine family will be a large cabin, long-range aircraft. The engine design integrates specific features that will also meet the needs of 40 to 60-seat regional jets, when relevant market conditions allow carriers to replace their existing fleets.

***

Snecma, SAFRAN Group, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of aircraft and space engines, with a wide range of propulsion systems on offer. The company designs and builds commercial aircraft engines that are powerful, reliable, economical and environmentally friendly, along with military aircraft engines that have always delivered world-class performance. Snecma develops and produces propulsion systems and equipment for launch vehicles and satellites. CFM56 engines are produced and marketed by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between General Electric and Snecma.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.02.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN to supply all landing and braking control systems for the A350XWB


Paris, February 14, 2008

Airbus has announced its selection of Messier-Bugatti, a SAFRAN Group company, for the design, development, production, integration and support of the electronic and hydraulic landing and braking control systems for its new A350XWB long-range commercial jet.

The contract covers all “ATA32” systems: braking, steering, landing gear extension/retraction, and tire, brake and landing gear monitoring systems.

Messier-Bugatti is the only company in the world capable of offering this type of package solution spanning all landing and braking functions. Its solutions also draw on the overall expertise of the SAFRAN Group, which enable it to offer work packages comprising the system and all equipment needed for a specific function. This contract delivers technological solutions that meet the economic, performance, reliability and environmental requirements of the A350XWB program.

The systems will be designed to fit the different members of the A350XWB family.

With this latest contract, coupled with Messier-Dowty’s selection as supplier of the main landing gear, the SAFRAN Group will supply most of the A350XWB’s overall landing/braking system. This represents total revenues of 6 billion euros over 20 years, including services.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has 57,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.messier-bugatti.com

PRESS RELEASE

15.02.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité unveils ULISS 30 XP, the new artillery positioning and pointing system


New Delhi, DEFEXPO, February 16, 2008

At the DEFEXPO defense exhibition here in New Delhi, Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) is showcasing for the first time its ULISS 30 XP, a new positioning and azimuth determination system (PADS) used for artillery pieces, or to carry out topographic missions.

The compact, standalone ULISS 30 XP system, which can be mounted on light vehicles, features the latest technologies, including:

  • SIGMA 30 digital laser gyro navigation unit with integrated theodolite.
  • Touch screen with mapping display.
  • High-energy NiMH battery.

ULISS 30 XP can be fitted as original equipment on newer platforms or retrofitted to modernize artillery units already in service.

ULISS 30 XP offers excellent performance for the cost, and extends Sagem Défense Sécurité’s range of artillery systems.

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a technology leader in artillery systems, with a full range of equipment for all types of weapons: observation systems and optronic sensors, navigation and pointing systems, fire control, computers, digital mapping, systems integration. Artillery systems by Sagem Défense Sécurité are in service in about 20 countries.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Organized in two divisions, Sagem Avionics and Sagem Optronics and Defense, Sagem Défense Sécurité is a world leader in its core businesses. The Sagem Avionics Division covers two main sectors: inertial navigation, where it is No. 1 in Europe and No. 3 worldwide; and aircraft systems, including world leadership in helicopter flight controls. The Sagem Optronics and Defense Division designs and develops thermal vision equipment and air-land systems, and is the European leader in surveillance and fire control optronics. Through SAFRAN, Sagem Défense Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

18.02.2008, PowerJet
PowerJet announces the first successful results of the SaM146 flight test campaign


Singapore, February 18, 2008

PowerJet, a joint-venture between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and NPO Saturn announced today the first successful results of its SaM146 engine flight test program.

The flight test campaign started on December 6, 2007 on LII Gromov’s IL-76LL flying laboratory in Zhukovsky, Russia. To date, the engine has completed a total of 42 flight hours (22 flights) and additional ground tests under the wing as well, achieving all expected performance objectives.

The flight tests performed during the campaign were: opening of flight test envelope, validation of engine performance and operability, validation of restart logic and relight in wind milling, demonstration of acceleration and deceleration time capability and flame out margin within the specifications, validation in flight of FADEC software, validation of fan blade flutter margin in flight, verification of the engine general behavior, including stress and vibration levels.

Tests will continue to further accumulate data for engine certification, which requires a total of 150 flight hours. The second part of the tests is scheduled to be carried out in the second quarter of 2008.

Concurrently, two compliance engines have already been delivered to Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Company in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, ready for the first flight of the Superjet 100 regional aircraft.

The SaM146 is designed specifically for regional jets of the new generation. It features the most up-to-date design based on the experience of the two mother companies Snecma and NPO Saturn, and the close partnership that they have built to bring this programme to success. The SaM146 specific characteristics are high dispatch reliability, low maintenance costs, low fuel consumption, as well as full compliance with existing and future environment standards set forth by ICAO.

***

PowerJet, founded in July 2004, is a joint venture of Snecma (SAFRAN Group) of France and NPO Saturn of Russia. The company is in charge of the SaM146 engine program management, including development, production, marketing and sales, as well as customer support and MRO services. In April 2003, the SaM146 engine was selected by Sukhoi Civil Aircraft to power its Superjet 100 regional jet.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.powerjet.aero

PRESS RELEASE

19.02.2008, SAFRAN;Messier Bugatti
SAFRAN electric brake scores world first on commercial jet


Paris, February 19, 2008

On February 13, an electric brake was successfully tested for the first time in the world on a commercial jetliner, an Airbus A340-600. This electric brake technology was developed by Messier-Bugatti, a SAFRAN Group company, through a joint demonstration program with Airbus called EABS – electrically actuated braking system.

The flight tests included landings with automatic braking and rejected takeoffs (RTO).

These tests mark a major step forward in the EABS research program. Launched in 2003, the EABS program aims to determine the advantages of electric brake technology over current hydraulic braking systems on a future “all electric” aircraft.

Electric brakes offer several advantages, including faster installation on the aircraft, more efficient monitoring of brake wear, higher dispatch reliability for the aircraft and simplified maintenance. For airlines, these advantages should translate into a significant reduction in operating costs.

Messier-Bugatti was also selected to design and develop the electric brakes for Boeing’s new 787 Dreamliner, scheduled to enter service in early 2009. Several airlines have already chosen Messier-Bugatti’s electric brakes for their aircraft.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has more than 57,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

18.02.2008, CFM International
CFM to Offer Tech Insertion Upgrades in Second Half of 2008


SINGAPORE - February 19, 2008

CFM International will begin offering Tech Insertion upgrades to current CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B operators in the second half of this year, bringing all of the benefits of these advanced technology enhancements to mature fleets.

CFM56 engines are produced by CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM has identified four unique upgrade configurations matched to customers’ specific requirements.

The full Tech Insertion upgrade kit will include new compressor,combustor, and high pressure turbine hardware which will provide better fuel burn, longer time on wing, enhanced durability, lower maintenance costs, and the ability to meet the new International Civil Aviation Organisation’s CAEP/6 emission regulations.

In addition to the full upgrade, operators can choose from a high-pressure compress kit scheduled for certification in the second quarter 2008; a high-pressure turbine upgrade; or the new low-pressure turbine nozzle. All of these hardware configurations will be installed at normal overhaul.

CFM56 Tech Insertion upgrades will provide operators with longer time on wing through up to 15°C improved exhaust gas temperature margin and lower deterioration. The upgrades will also help reduce maintenance costs by between five and 12 percent, depending on the thrust rating, through enhanced durability.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

18.02.2008, CFM International
CFM Maintains Highest Production Rate in the Industry


SINGAPORE - February 19, 2008

CFM International achieves record production rates in 2007, producing nearly 1,270 engines, up from 1,060 engines just one year ago. The company’s previous engine production record of 1,080 engines was achieved in 1999.

CFM International (CFM) is the 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company and one of the most successful aircraft engine suppliers in aviation history.

"The continued success of the CFM56 program is phenomenal. There is a CFM56 engine coming off the production line every four hours*," said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM International. "We are honored by the continued confidence airlines around the globe have shown in our products, selecting CFM56 engines to power more Airbus and Boeing single-aisle aircraft than any other engine in history."

CFM anticipates even higher rates in the 2008 to 2010 time frame, with levels projected to be between 1350 and 1,450 engines for each of those years.

CFM56 engines power the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321, the A318 Elite and A319CJ corporate jets and A340-200/-300 models and the Boeing Next-Generation 737-600/-700/-800/-900/-900ER and BBJ airplanes.

*during a five-day work week

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

18.02.2008, CFM International
LEAP56™ Program Progressing on Schedule with Highly Successful Component and Rig Tests


SINGAPORE - February 19, 2008

CFM International’s advanced technology acquisition program, LEAP56™, is progressing on schedule. The company completed component and rig tests in 2007 and many more are scheduled for 2008 and 2009.

CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma(SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. "With LEAP56, we are focusing our efforts on engine architecture, advanced aerodynamics, materials, and environmental technologies to address the major challenges we see in the future," said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM. "The goals we have set are aggressive by any measure, but we are committed to validating and maturing the technology that will continue to meet our customers expectations over the long term."

Compared to the current CFM56 Tech Insertion configuration, CFM is targeting 10-15 percent lower specific fuel consumption; 15 percent lower maintenance costs; 25 percent longer initial on-wing life; a 10-15 decibel reduction in noise; and a 60 percent reduction in NOx emissions. CFM intends to meet all of these goals without any sacrifice in the industry-leading CFM56 reliability standards.

The test schedule for 2008 includes a composite fan case containment test, along with fan aerodynamic and bird strike tests, TAPS combustor, and high-pressure compressor rig tests, in addition to high- and low-pressure turbine component tests. The company will also complete component tests on the resin transfer molding (RTM) fan blade and the ceramic matrix composite(CMC) high-pressure turbine nozzles.

The current LEAP56 configuration incorporates an RTM fan and composite fan case. The ultra-high pressure ratio core includes an eight-stage high-pressure compressor driven by a high-efficiency single-stage high-pressure turbine.

The core will incorporate third generation three dimensional aerodynamic design airfoils; the advanced TAPS II (Twin-Annular, Pre-Swirl) combustor ; and advanced aerodynamics, materials, and cooling technology in the high-pressure turbine. The highly efficient low-pressure turbine with reduced parts count will also incorporate advanced, low-weight materials such as titanium aluminide.

For the longer-term, CFM is also studying game-changing technologies that will address the ever-increasing requirements for lower noise and emissions. Using LEAP56 technology as the foundation, the company is actively pursing counter-rotating fan technology, as well as open rotor designs that build on the experience of the unducted fan from the late 1980s. Two potential open rotor designs are being validated for an engine in the 25,000-pound (111 kN) thrust class that could provide a 35:1 bypass ratio.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

18.02.2008, CFM International
CFM Logs Record Orders in 2007


SINGAPORE - February 18, 2008

CFM International (CFM) experienced another record year in 2007, receiving orders for more than 2,700 commercial, military, and spare engines. These orders are valued at approximate $18 billion at list price.

CFM International is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

CFM set a new record in 2005, receiving orders for 1,640 CFM56 engines, and broke that record the very next year with orders for 2,110 engine. Prior to 2005, the company’s previous record of 1,343 orders was set in 1989.

Highlights of 2007 order to date include:

  • BOC Aviation: $275 million order for CFM56-7B engine to power 20 Boeing 737s; $95 million order for CFM56-5B engines to power seven firm, 10 option Airbus A320s.
  • Air China: $345 million order for CFM56-5B engine to power 24 Airbus A321s.
  • Skybus Airlines: $750 million order for CFM56-5B engines to power 65 Airbus A319s.
  • ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Company: a $100 million CFM56-7B engine order from to power six firm, six option Next-Generation 737 aircraft.
  • easyJet: exercised options for CFM56-5B engines to power 52 additional Airbus A319 aircraft in a firm engine order valued at more than $700 million.
  • Dubai Aerospace: $945 million CFM56-7B order to power 70 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft for its DAE Capital aircraft leasing and finance business.
  • Saudi Arabian Airlines: $135 million CFM56-5B engine order to power 10 Airbus A320s
  • transavia.com: $95 million CFM56-7B engine order to power seven firm 737s

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

18.02.2008, CFM International
Tech Insertion Has Highly Successful Worldwide Entry Into Service; More than 900 Engines Delivered to Date


SINGAPORE - February 18, 2008

CFM56 Tech Insertion has had a highly successful entry into service, with the engines performing extremely well in airline operation. To date, CFM has delivered more than more 900 new CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines in this configuration to airlines around the globe.

CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM is the world’s leading aircraft engine manufacturer, with nearly 17,600 engines delivered to date.

Tech Insertion became the new production standard for the CFM56-7B and CFM56-5B in 2007. The CFM56-7B variant entered service with Lion Air last May, while Italy’s Air One took delivery of the first CFM56-5B Tech Insertion engine in October.

The CFM56 Tech Insertion program incorporates advanced technologies developed and validated as part of Project TECH56 to provide operators with lower maintenance costs. Improved analytic design tools developed as part of this program have enable CFM to further optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions, allowing the engine to meet the new International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Committee of Aviation Environmental Protection emissions standards (CAEP/6) scheduled to take effect in 2008. In addition, the engine’s improvement in fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by as much as 200 tons per aircraft per year.

Over the engine’s life cycle, CFM56 Tech Insertion will also provide operators with longer time on wing through an equivalent 15-20°C additional exhaust gas temperature margin and will lower maintenance costs by between five and 12 percent, depending on the thrust rating, through enhanced durability. These benefits are achieved through improvements to the high-pressure compressor and the high- and low-pressure turbines. The new configuration is designated by a "/3" on the engine name place (i.e.CFM56-5B5/3)

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

18.02.2008, CFM International
CFM Delivers the 18.000th CFM56 Engine


SINGAPORE - February 19, 2008

CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric and one of the most successful aircraft engine suppliers in history, has delivered the 18,000th CFM56 engine. At the current production rate, the 19,000th CFM56 engine will be delivered in 2008, as well.

The engine, a CFM56-5B, was delivered to Airbus on February 8th to be installed on an Airbus A320 aircraft that will be leased to China’s Shenzhen Airlines. Eighteen thousand engines is an incredible milestone, said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM International. We are certainly very proud of the products we bring to the industry, but we also know we owe the tremendous debt of gratitude to our nearly 500 customers around the world, as well as to Airbus and Boeing, for our continued success and we thank them all for their confidence in our people and in our products.

CFM has long-standing relationships with the two airplane manufacturers and each has made tremendous contributions to the company’s long-term success.

The first CFM56 engine, a CFM56-2, was delivered in 1982 to power a re-engined DC-8-71 airplane.

Today, the CFM56 product line includes six engine models spanning the thrust range from 18,500 to 34,000 pounds (82 to 151 kN) thrust. Commercial applications include Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 single-aisle aircraft, the long-range A340-200/-300, and the A319 Corporate Jet; and Boeing Classic 737-300/-400/-500, Next-Generation 737-600/-700/-800/-900, the Boeing Business Jet, and re-engined DC-8 Super 70 series aircraft.

The CFM56 fleet has logged nearly 400 million flight hours in service powering more than 7,200 commercial and military aircraft worldwide as the most reliable engines in the air.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

20.02.2008, Messier Services
Messier Services Asia signs a major contract and starts maintenance on B737 NG gears


Singapore, February 20, 2008

Messier Services Asia (SAFRAN Group), has signed a new major agreement with China Eastern covering 24 x Airbus A320 landing gear program for exchange, maintenance and overhaul. The work has already started and will continue throughout 2008 & 2009.

During 2007, several other contracts for exchange and overhaul were awarded to Messier Services Asia :

  • China Southern for 3 x Airbus A320 Landing Gear shipsets
  • Thai Airways for 6 x Boeing B737-400 Landing Gear shipsets

Following its Boeing certification and the expansion of its facility, Messier Services Asia has started maintenance and overhaul on B737 New Generation Landing Gears. The first overhauled gear was shipped out on the 5th of November 2007 and Messier Services Asia will have the opportunity to increase further the volume this year on this type of gear.

***

Messier Services International provides maintenance, repair and overhaul services for aircraft landing systems as well as associated hydraulics. Messier Services is a member company of the Safran Group, and has close to 1,100 employees at sites in Europe, the Americas and Singapore. Messier Services holds approvals from all relevant constructors and airworthiness authorities for the entire range of repair and maintenance operations on equipment produced by Messier-Dowty, Messier-Bugatti and other leading manufacturers.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

PRESS RELEASE

21.02.2008, PowerJet
PowerJet announces the first run of the SaM146 engine installed on the wing of the Superjet 100


Singapore, February 21, 2008

On February 20, 2008, the SaM146 passed the first successful engine run, installed on the Superjet 100 wing at Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Russia.

This successful event represents a major milestone of the programme, paving the way to the Superjet 100 first flight.

The SaM146 is developed by PowerJet, a joint-venture between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and NPO Saturn. It is designed specifically for regional jets of the new generation. It features the most up-to-date design based on the experience of the two mother companies, and the close partnership that they have built to bring this programme to success.

The SaM146 specific characteristics are high dispatch reliability, low maintenance costs, low fuel consumption, as well as full compliance with existing and future environment standards set forth by ICAO.

***

PowerJet, founded in July 2004, is a joint venture of Snecma (SAFRAN Group) of France and NPO Saturn of Russia. The company is in charge of the SaM146 engine program management, including development, production, marketing and sales, as well as customer support and MRO services. In April 2003, the SaM146 engine was selected by Sukhoi Civil Aircraft to power its Superjet 100 regional jet.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.powerjet.aero

PRESS RELEASE

21.02.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Infrared version of Sagem Défense Sécurité’s AASM modular air-to-ground weapon successfully test fired


Paris – February 21, 2008

On February 5, 2008, the AASM modular air-to-ground weapon was successfully fired with an infrared homing device from a Mirage 2000 fighter. The firing completes the industrial validation of this second AASM version.

Developed and manufactured by Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group), the AASM is in a class of its own worldwide. As a modular weapon, it consists of a guidance kit and a range enhancement kit that can be adapted to standard bomb bodies. As such, it can carry out highly accurate strikes with a range of more than 50km.

The tested version integrates a terminal-guidance infrared imager that rounds out the inertial and GPS guidance of the basic version.

The firing, which took place at the French defense procurement agency’s Biscarosse test center, was particularly ambitious: it entailed hitting in a mock industrial zone a target whose GPS coordinates – transmitted to the AASM before the test – were purposely shifted several hundred meters from the actual position.

The AASM’s infrared imager used its image processing algorithms to identify the target several seconds before impact. It then corrected its trajectory at the last moment in order to hit the target with great accuracy.

This demonstrates the capability of the infrared version of the AASM to carry out extremely precise strikes on targets whose GPS coordinates are not accurately known.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Organized in two divisions, Sagem Avionics and Sagem Optronics and Defense, Sagem Défense Sécurité is a world leader in its core businesses. The Sagem Avionics Division covers two main sectors: inertial navigation, where it is No. 1 in Europe and No. 3 worldwide; and aircraft systems, including world leadership in helicopter flight controls.
The Sagem Optronics and Defense Division designs and develops thermal vision equipment and air-land systems, and is the European leader in surveillance and fire control optronics.
Through SAFRAN, Sagem Défense Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

21.02.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité delivers first SIGMA 30 artillery navigation and pointing systems to India


New Deli, DEFEXPO, February 19, 2008

Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) has just delivered the first SIGMA 30 navigation and pointing systems to the Indian Ministry of Defense’s DRDO/ARDE* for deployment on the Indian army’s Pinaka multiple launch rocket systems, initially for two regiments. These units will be integrated by Larsen & Toubro Ltd. and Tata Power Company Ltd., the two manufacturers responsible for Pinaka systems integration.

Developed and produced by Sagem Défense Sécurité using laser gyro technology, the SIGMA 30 land navigation system for artillery pointing and positioning is designed for high-precision firing on short notice.

Sagem Défense Sécurité artillery systems are already used by the armed forces of about 20 different countries. These systems present state-of-the art technologies: advanced observation, optronic sensors, navigation and pointing systems, fire control, computers, digital mapping, systems integration.

* Defense R&D Organization/Armament R&D Establishment

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Organized in two divisions, Sagem Avionics and Sagem Optronics and Defense, Sagem Défense Sécurité is a world leader in its core businesses.

The Sagem Avionics Division covers two main sectors: inertial navigation, where it is No. 1 in Europe and No. 3 worldwide; and aircraft systems, including world leadership in helicopter flight controls.

The Sagem Optronics and Defense Division designs and develops thermal vision equipment and air-land systems, and is the European leader in surveillance and fire control optronics.

Through SAFRAN, Sagem Défense Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

21.02.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
India orders over one hundred SIGMA 95 navigation systems from Sagem Défense Sécurité


New Deli, DEFEXPO, February 19, 2008

The aircraft manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) of India has just ordered from Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) more than 100 SIGMA 95N navigation systems. These systems will be used on the Indian Air Force Sukhoi fighters and the Tejas fighters from the Indian LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) program.

They will round out the SIGMA 95N systems already in use on the Sukhoi 30s, MiG-27, MiG-27s, Jaguars and Indian Hawks.

Developed and produced by Sagem Défense Sécurité, SIGMA 95N is a standalone inertial laser gyro navigation system with integrated GPS/Glonass*. It brings high-precision navigation and a high degree of operating flexibility to combat aircraft.

Since the beginning of the 1980s Sagem Défense Sécurité has been a preferred supplier of inertial navigation systems to combat aircraft, battleships, and artillery. Today, systems and equipment by Sagem Défense Sécurité are used on more than 300 combat aircraft in service with the Indian armed forces.

This order is a step further in the discussions between Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and Sagem Défense Sécurité following the agreement signed in June 2007, which sets the stage for a long-term partnership. It opens the way for a joint venture in India for production and maintenance of inertial navigation systems and automatic flight control systems. This project is subject to final approval of both government authorities.

* GPS (Global Positioning System) and Glonass (GLObal’naya NAvigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema): American and Russian satellite positioning systems.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Organized in two divisions, Sagem Avionics and Sagem Optronics and Defense, Sagem Défense Sécurité is a world leader in its core businesses.

The Sagem Avionics Division covers two main sectors: inertial navigation, where it is No. 1 in Europe and No. 3 worldwide; and aircraft systems, including world leadership in helicopter flight controls.

The Sagem Optronics and Defense Division designs and develops thermal vision equipment and air-land systems, and is the European leader in surveillance and fire control optronics.

Through SAFRAN, Sagem Défense Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.02.2008, Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) has reached agreement with regard to a SBH® contract with Bond


Houston, 24 February 2007

The Bond Aviation Group has reached an agreement with Turbomeca with regard to SBH® (Support By the Hour) contracts. The contracts concern the Arrius 2B2 engine for Bond’s fleet of 18 EC 135T2 helicopters and Makila 1A and 2A engines for the Bond Offshore Helicopter’s fleet of 10 Super Pumas.
The agreement represents renewed business resulting in a five year extension to the current contracts which is a clear demonstration of the strong relationship between the two companies. Bond Air Service’s fleet of EC 135T2 aircraft are used to support a wide diversity of high demand operations including Air Ambulance and Police operations throughout the United Kingdom.

Bond Offshore Helicopter’s fleet of Eurocopter AS332L2 and EC225 helicopters are utilised to transport personnel in support of the offshore oil and gas industry with further aircraft specially equipped for the support of 24 hour search and rescue operations.

***

About Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 25 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.02.2008, Turbomeca
Turbomeca USA (SAFRAN Group) and Maverick Helicopters celebrate 100,000 flight hours on the Arriel Engine during Heli-Expo


Houston, 24 February 2007

The Turbomeca Arriel turboshaft engine has clocked over 100,000 flight hours on Maverick Helicopters fleet. During the HAI they will be taking delivery of their 28th EC 130. The smooth performance of this engine has contributed to the success of Maverick’s Grand Canyon and Las Vegas tour missions for over 12 years.

Gregg Rochna, CEO and owner of Maverick Helicopters added “Over the years, Maverick has worked very closely with Turbomeca and feel that they are a valued partner. Without them we wouldn’t have been able to get were we are today.”

***

About Maverick Helicopters
Maverick Helicopters is a Las Vegas Helicopter tour operator that also operates tours out of Grand Canyon, AZ. Maverick is the largest operator in the world of the EC 130 B4 and specializes in sightseeing tours and corporate charter work. Maverick Helicopters continues to be the preferred choice for most concierge, ticketing companies, VIP lounges, travel agencies, meeting planners and destination management companies in Las Vegas and around the world. Safety and Service has always been Maverick’s number 1 goal.

About Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 25 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.02.2008, Turbomeca
Turbomeca USA (SAFRAN Group) and Era Helicopters LLC sign a SBH® contract for Makila engines at Heli-Expo


Houston, 24 February 2007

The Support By the Hour (SBH®) contract covers 16 Turbomeca Makila 2A engines to power Era’s new fleet of eight Eurocopter EC 225 helicopters. The engines will be operated by Era or third parties in a pool arrangement and will perform missions in the Gulf of Mexico and Europe. Each are expected to fly a minimum of 1,000 hours per year.
“Era Helicopters is looking forward to a collaborative effort with Turbomeca aimed at ensuring maximum availability to Era’s new helicopter fleet,” said Ed Washecka, Era’s CEO.

The ceremonial signing is scheduled for February 25th at 12:30pm Turbomeca booth #1031.

***

About ERA
Operating over 170 helicopters globally, Era, based in Lake Charles, LA, remains at the forefront of the oil and gas support industry with its technologically advanced helicopter fleet. Era and its subsidiaries provide personnel transport services to the shallow and deepwater oil and gas fields in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska, air medical transport services within the U.S., leasing services to third parties worldwide and a variety of aviation-related services at its FBO in Anchorage, Alaska. Era is committed to service and safety excellence in every aspect of its operations.

About Turbomeca< br> Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 25 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.erahelicopters.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.02.2008, Turbomeca
Turbomeca, a strong domestic footprint in North America


Houston, le 24 février 2007

North America is a major market for Turbomeca with sales to civil operators flying a variety of missions covering offshore, EMS, Tourism and police support. In addition, Turbomeca provides Arriel 1E2 engines to power the UH-72A Lakota of the US Army and Arriel 2C2CG engines for the US Coast Guard’s HH-65. To cope with growing demand and to offer in country support, Turbomeca USA, Turbomeca Canada, six TurboSupport Centers and over 15 Field Representatives allow the engine maker to support a fleet of over 2,400 Turbomeca engines in service on nearly 2,000 helicopters.
Turbomeca strongly believes that the best way to improve responsiveness is to have people and technical resources as close to operators as possible. Turbomeca Canada and Turbomeca USA are committed to providing quicker, better and more comprehensive services to operators in North America. The whole idea is to provide enhanced proximity services while offering a broader choice of maintenance and repair centers to the operators.

Turbomeca USA ( Dallas, Texas, USA)
Established in 1980, Turbomeca USA has steadily grown from just 5 employees to over 360 employees today, in a 142,000 square foot facility. Turbomeca USA offers maintenance, repair and overhaul services for the Arriel and Arrius family of engines and accessories. In addition, Turbomeca USA assembles new Arriel and Arrius engines and accessories. Last year Turbomeca USA successfully produced or repaired approximately 1,000 engines and 1,000 line replaceable units (FCU/HMU). Turbomeca USA also, provides a wide array of support services to include 13 Regional Field Representatives, 24 hour AOG service, Technical publications, customer training, spare parts sales and Support By the Hour Programs.

Turbomeca Canada (Quebec, Canada)
Inaugurated in 2003, Turbomeca Canada (33,000 square feet) is located about 30 miles north of Montreal. Turbomeca Canada’s 120 employees primary focus is to provide its North American Customers with repair and overhaul services for the Arriel 1 and Arriel 2 engine and accessories, as well as TurboSupport Center on the Arriel 1, Arriel 2 and Arrius 2 engines (over 650 engines repaired up to now). In addition, Turbomeca Canada provides support services such as around the clock AOG service, Field Representative and Field Technician support, Spare Parts sales, Rentals, and Support by the Hour programs.

In March 2007, Turbomeca awarded the corporate mandate for tooling support to Turbomeca Canada. This decision was made based on a need to centralize and optimize the procurement, administration and distribution of all tooling to Turbomeca customers worldwide.
In addition to celebrate its fifth anniversary, Turbomeca Canada will also inaugurate a 16,000 square feet extension and will reach the milestone of the 1,000th Fuel Control Unit repaired in 2008.

Turbomeca Manufacturing (Monroe, North Carolina, USA)
The main aim of establishing this new site in North America is to increase Turbomeca’s production capacity while increasing the American content for the current and future markets, as well as producing, among others, Arriel 1E2 specific parts. The Arriel 1E2 powers Eurocopter’s UH-72A Lakota. The US Army has ordered 322 of these helicopters for the Light Utility Helicopter Program (LUH).
Turbomeca Manufacturing will have three production lines: turbine blades, profile parts (centrifugal compressors, axial wheels), as well as complex weld-fabricated parts (such as diffusers). The production will begin in June this year.
Built on 16 hectares of land, this new factory will cover a surface of 100,000 sqft. In 2010, production capacity will reach 200 000 hours per year and Turbomeca Manufacturing will encompass a team of approximately 180 employees.

***

About Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 25 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

26.02.2008
SEASONS OF SOLIDARITY
Four seasons, four concerts, four humanitarian initiatives...


On Thursday, March 20, 2008, at 20:30 pm in the Salle Gaveau in Paris, the Musiciens de La Prée orchestra led by Pejman Memarzadeh will give the Spring concert in the Seasons of Solidarity series, featuring pianist Philippe Entremont. All revenues from this exceptional concert will be donated to the European Leukodystrophy Association (ELA).

Founded in 1992 and recognized by the government in 1996, ELA brings together families who are fighting against this type of rare (orphan) diseases that destroy the myelin (sheaths) of nerves in the central nervous system. Every week in France, three to six babies are born with these terrible, and still incurable diseases (20 to 40 in all of Europe). Since being founded, the association has financed more than 270 research programs, providing a total of 21.3 million euros.

In 2005 ELA created a Research Foundation dedicated to all myelin-related diseases, including multiple sclerosis and neurological illnesses of premature infants. More than 100,000 people in France are directly concerned by this type of research. Nearly 4 million euros were invested in2007, with the objective of conducting the first therapeutic tests on people.

The SAFRAN Group of France, already a sponsor of the Autumn 2007 concert in support of Neurodon, a national campaign to support brain research, including neurological diseases, is extending its partnership with the Musiciens de La Prée orchestra through the Spring concert, which will benefit the ELA association.

SAFRAN has another goal as well. In conjunction with the orchestra, the national ministry of education and the school districts of Paris, Créteil and Versailles, SAFRAN will invite some 800 students from schools in these districts to a concert on March 11, 2008, an event that will focus not just on the music, but also on a spirit of generosity and sharing.

March 20 Concert Program

Ludwig van Beethoven  "Coriolanus", Overture
Richard Wagner   "Siegfried", Idyll
Robert Schumann   Concerto for piano and orchestra

Featuring

Philippe Entremont, piano

Founded in 1995 by Pejman Memarzadeh, the Musiciens de La Prée orchestra comprises young professionals from Europe’s leading conservatories. Memarzadeh’s dynamic initiative has enabled him to form a special partnership with the Long-Thibaud International Contest.

The Orchestra was created to meet two main objectives:

  • Serve the cause of music through total commitment and the goal of being a world-class French chamber orchestra.
    Since the outset, the orchestra has given concerts with internationally-known soloists in some of the most prestigious concert halls in Europe (Staatsoper, Berlin, National Concert Hall of Dublin, National Polish Radio in Warsaw, Théâtre des Champs-Elysées, Salle Gaveau, Hôtel de Ville in Paris, and the Opéra de Lille).
  • Use music to help people through two major initiatives: solidarity (Seasons of Solidarity concert series), and inter-cultural exchanges between East and West, including the first concert tour in Iran by a Western orchestra since the 1979 revolution.

For the third year in a row, the Musiciens de La Prée orchestra wanted to focus on this solidarity in its Paris concerts. Each concert is designed to support and publicize the work of charitable and humanitarian associations, with all receipts donated to support the associated projects.

Thanks to a total commitment – by the artists, public, companies, foundations and associations – the orchestra creates a new dynamic at each of its concerts, placing culture in a social context and allowing music to serve people.

The nine concerts of the Seasons of Solidarity have so far generated more than 260,000 euros for nine associations.

Tickets:
Salle Gaveau – 45, rue de la Boétie – 75008 Paris – Tel : 01 49 53 05 07 – www.sallegaveau.com
Magasins Fnac – Carrefour – Géant – Tel : 0 892 683 622 (0,34€/min) – www.fnac.com

CONTACTS SAFRAN

PRESS RELEASE

25.02.2008, CFM International
Uzbekistan Airways Selected CFM56-5B to Power new A320 Aircraft


EVENDALE, Ohio - February 25, 2008

Uzbekistan Airways, the national carrier of Uzbekistan, has become CFM International newest customer with an order for CFM56-5B engines to power six new Airbus A320 aircraft scheduled to begin delivery in 2011. The order is valued at more than $80 million at list price.

CFM56-5B engines are produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM is the world’s leading supplier of commercial aircraft engines with 18,000 engines in service with nearly 500 operators worldwide.

Uzbekistan Airways, which recently celebrated its 16th anniversary, has it has carried more than 30 million customers and become one of the leading carriers in Central Asia since its formation in 1992.

The airline operates scheduled flights to more than forty cities worldwide to destinations in North America, Europe, the MiddlesEast, Southeast and Central Asia and the CIS.

The CFM56-5B is the engine of choice for the Airbus A320 family and is popular with major airlines, low-cost carriers, and leasing companies alike. Nearly 3,000 CFM56-5B engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet is growing at a rate of about 40 engines per month. Primary factors behind the engine’s broad-based acceptance include this industry’s best reliability, durability, low cost of ownership, and world-class customer and product support. The CFM56-5B is the only engine that can power every model of the A320 family, from the small A318 up to the A321, with the same bill of materials.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

29.02.2008, Sagem Mobiles
Sagem Mobiles is simplifying its structure in China


Paris, February 29, 2008

Sagem Mobiles (SAFRAN Group) is announcing a project in order to simplify its manufacturing structure in China.

Since 1999, mobile activities of SAGEM have grown in China in partnership with Ningbo Bird. Therefore Sagem Mobiles has set up activities both in R&D and in manufacturing located in Ningbo, south of Shanghaï (Zhejiang region).

The manufacturing Joint Venture (JV) NingBo Bird Sagem Electronics Co. Ltd (NBBSE) is today a key element in the manufacturing set up of Sagem Mobiles. The share of quantities manufactured by the JV for SAGEM becoming the wide majority, the partners decided to make the JV evolve towards a “wholly foreign owned enterprise” owned by Sagem Mobiles. This project will be of the same kind as the evolution managed end of 2007 on the R&D J.V. which became Sagem Mobiles R&D Ningbo Co. Ltd (SMRDN).

«Since its creation in 2002, the manufacturing JV NBBSE has increased step by step its skills to play an important role in the production of SAGEM mobiles. This project targets to clarify this role in accordance with our partner» declared Thierry Buffenoir, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Sagem Mobiles.

«The market drives us to make our tools evolve and the quality of the partnership with Sagem Mobiles allows us to do this» declared M. Xu Lihua, CEO of Ningbo Bird.

About Sagem Mobiles
Sagem Mobiles (SAFRAN group) is a major actor on the mobile communications market. Present around the globe, Sagem Mobiles designs, develops, produces and markets ranges of mobile telephones using advanced technologies (fixed-mobile convergence, mobile TV, NFC/RFID identification solutions, etc.) together with a wide range of mobile phone accessories. Sagem Mobiles also develops and produces mobile phones for ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) offerings.

About Ningbo Bird
Ningbo Bird Co. Ltd is a stock listed high-tech company which is specializing in the R&D, manufacture and marketing of mobile communication equipment. It is the first largest Chinese mobile maker which has already passed through the examine and approve hold by National Science & Technology Department and The Chinese Academy of Sciences.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem.com | www.safran-group.com | www.chinabird.com

PRESS RELEASE

04.03.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Monetel rolls out 2 millionth Telium payment terminal


Montrouge, March 3, 2008

Sagem Monetel, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) has just rolled out the 2 millionth payment terminal in its Telium range, three years after its launch.

The impressive success of the Telium range is a world success with a record growth rate in 2007: + 50% in South-East Asia, +300% in Spain and the United Kingdom, and +900% in Brazil. The total number in service reaches two million in over 40 countries. In the already developed market in France, Telium terminals are logging a growth rate of 17%, largely surpassing the national average.

This range is chalking up a record growth rate of 50% in a global market that is averaging 10% to 15% yearly growth. Sagem Monetel sold one million electronic payment terminals in 2007 alone.

Telium has been able to outpace its competitors due to three distinctive technical advantages:

  • processing time: it is the first terminal in the market to feature a 32-bit RISC processor, for record-setting processing times,
  • security-oriented approach: the sensitive security functions are deeply embedded in its co-processors and thus unreachable,
  • Reliability: the Telium range uses ASIC – Application-Specific Integrated Circuits – technology to reduce the total number of components, by grouping a large number of hardware and software functions in a single unit.

With the Telium range, Sagem Monetel consolidates its leadership in the market, as it continues to widen the gap with its competitors.

"We are very proud of this technological and commercial achievement,” notes Chief Executive Joël Chevillard. “We obviously want to maintain our position at the cutting edge of innovation, but also continue our policy of delivering services to an increasingly international clientele, including banks and other financial institutions, as well as our network of distributor partners.”

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Among the leading European security systems companies, it is present in four main areas: biometric systems, where it is the worldwide leader in fingerprint-based biometrics; secure terminals for access control, payments and gaming; road safety equipment and smart cards. Its products and integrated systems are used worldwide, helping to ensure transport safety, data and personal security and governmental safety capabilities at the highest level. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents. For more information: www.sagem-securite.com, www.safran-group.com

Sagem Monetel is part of the SAFRAN Group and is a 100% subsidiary of Sagem Defence & Security; it designs, develops, produces and markets electronic transaction terminals. With over 25 years of experience in the field of payment terminals, Sagem Monetel products and solutions have built a solid reputation of reliability and quality. Sagem Monetel is always at the vanguard of technology with the most innovative, high-performance solutions (fast processing, security for example). Sagem Monetel products are installed all over the world.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

07.03.2008, Labinal
Labinal achieves ISO 14001 certification for all its Business Units in France


Paris, March 6th 2008

Following the audit conducted by the BVQi in late 2007, Labinal has obtained ISO 14001 certification at all its French Business Units.

This certification illustrates Labinal Europe Wiring Division’s ongoing commitment to ‘Environmental Citizenship’. This initiative covers both the company’s capacity to control its impact on the environment, and the eco-responsible organization of its activities.

Specifically, the ISO 14001 environmental certificate has been awarded to Labinal Villemur, Labinal Vichy, and Labinal Ajaccio – all part of the Europe Wiring Division – as well as to Labinal Canalab, a Labinal Services Division Business Unit.

Initiated in 2005, the successful certification process is a major step forward in a global project based on continuous improvement, employees’ involvement, and the sharing of best practices.

During its audit, the BVQi particularly noted the organization’s effective implementation at all levels, the strong environmental awareness of the employees, the management’s commitment, and the continuous improvement process through the diversity of the procedures in place (5S, IGP). It also confirms the consistency between the company action plans and the environmental analysis of its activities.

ISO 14001 standards will be extended to Labinal Business Units in Morocco in 2008 and 2009.

***

One of the SAFRAN Group’s high tech companies, Labinal is a world leader in the field of electrical wiring systems – and studies in their engineering and associated technology – for the aviation, space and defense markets. The company’s unmatched expertise is founded on decades of design, development and manufacturing success with long-term partnerships with the leading aerospace companies. Labinal’s industrial activities, market segment oriented and customer-driven, are organized in four Divisions: Europe Wiring, North America Wiring, Engineering & Technology and Labinal Services.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.labinal.com

PRESS RELEASE

05.03.2008, EPI
Europrop International delivers flight test engines and reaches test milestone


March 5, 2008

Europrop International (EPI) has achieved a double success, delivering the last of the four TP400-D6 flight test engines which will power the first Airbus A400M and reaching the milestone of 1,000 hours of engine ground testing.

The final engine for the first aircraft was dispatched last week and has now arrived at the final assembly line of the A400M military transport aircraft in Seville. The installation of the engines onto the first flight test aircraft is now underway and this will involve integration with the propeller and nacelle. The first flight of the A400M is scheduled to take place during summer time.

In addition to the flight test programme, a number of TP400 engines continue to undergo extensive performance and operability tests throughout Europe on EPI partners’ indoor and outdoor test facilities demonstrating the engine characteristics and durability.

Nick Durham, the President of EPI, said: “This has been a challenging programme and the delivery of the first ship-set of TP400 flight test engines is an important milestone and, combined with the rapidly increasing rate of ground testing, shows that we are really making significant progress.”

“We can now look forward to a flight test programme which proves that we have designed an engine that satisfies all the performance criteria and sets new standards for a turboprop of this size”, said Philippe Petitcolin, non-executive Chairman of EPI.

In parallel to the work in Seville, the TP400 Flying Test Bed engine is about to commence ground vibration testing at Marshall Aerospace in Cambridge, UK, prior to first flight on a modified C-130 aircraft.

Challenges remain and EPI is confident and fully committed to working with Airbus Military to resolve them in a timely manner and make the programme a success.

***

EPI Europrop International GmbH was created by four leading European aero-engine companies - Industria de Turbo Propulsores, MTU Aero Engines, Rolls-Royce and Snecma (SAFRAN Group) - to manage the TP400 engine programme.

Designed to power the Airbus Military A400M military transport, the TP400 will be the most powerful turboshaft engine to enter service in the West. It features a three-shaft configuration and will deliver a maximum power output of 11,000 shaft horsepower. More than 800 engines will be required for the 192 A400M aircraft ordered to date by nine countries.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.europrop.aero

PRESS RELEASE

19.03.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Selection of Sagem Sécurité iris identification system by Oman and Jordan


March 18th, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) announced today that it will supply to Oman and Jordan identification systems based on iris recognition. The systems will be used for ID checks at borders.

These systems will be deployed at more than 100 sites, mainly at border crossing stations and airports. Border police in both countries will have an extremely fast and reliable system to check the identity of people entering their territories, calling on databases with previous records of people’s irises. Sagem Sécurité’s system can check in virtually real time.

Sagem Sécurité is the first company to be selected in the Gulf area for the supply of identification systems based on iris recognition. It already provides automated fingerprint identification systems to other countries in this part of the world.

This major business win for Sagem Sécurité’s iris recognition technology follows the IRIS* project deployed in the United Kingdom for the automated control of travellers. It further confirms Sagem Sécurité’s world leading position in biometric ID solutions, as well as its expertise in multibiometric technologies and ability to provide turnkey identification solutions.

(*)IRIS: Iris Recognition Immigration System

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Among the leading European security systems companies, it is present in four main areas: biometric systems, where it is the worldwide leader in fingerprint-based biometrics; secure terminals for access control, payments and gaming; road safety equipment and smart cards. Its products and integrated systems are used worldwide, helping to ensure transport safety, data and personal security and governmental safety capabilities at the highest level. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

19.03.2008, CFM International
Avianca Takes Delivery of First CFM-Powered Airbus A320 Aircraft


BOGOTA, Colombia - March 18, 2008

Avianca has taken delivery of the first of 50 CFM56-5B-powered Airbus A320. The airline became CFM’s newest customer in 2007 with a $650 million order (at list price) for engines to power 47 purchased A319/A320 aircraft, as well as leasing three additional airplanes from CIT Aerospace. Avianca is scheduled to take delivery of its new single-aisle aircraft fleet between 2008 and 2012.

CFM56-5B engines are a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint venture between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company and the world’s leading supplier of commercial aircraft engines.

"We believe that the CFM-powered A320 family aircraft will be a great addition to our fleet, " said Fabio Villegas, CEO of Avianca. "The advanced technology of this engine, coupled with its industry-leading reliability and low cost of ownership will help Avianca fulfill its mission of earning customer loyalty through on-time performance, flexibility, and innovation."

Avianca, the first airline founded in the Americas, is part of the Synergy Group, which also has economic interests in Brazil’s OceanAir, and Ecuador’s Vipsa. With more than six thousand (6,000) direct employees and a fleet of 51 short, middle and long haul aircraft, Avianca directly operates to 20 destinations in Colombia and 19 cities in America and Europe. From its Bogota hub, it offers an average of 300 flights a day among destinations in Colombia and abroad. Travelers have a wide range of choices for connections among directly operated destinations, or through 170 interline or code-share agreements with major international airlines. Besides offering air transportation to passengers, Avianca also offers tourist services, cargo, and courier as well as air transportation services to third parties through its business units Descubra, Deprisa and Avianca Services. For more information, enter: www.avianca.com

All of Avianca’s A320 aircraft will be equipped with advanced CFM56-5B Tech Insertion Engines. The CFM56 Tech Insertion program, which was certified on A320 family aircraft in September 2007, incorporates advanced technologies that provide operators with lower maintenance costs and better environmental performance.

Improved analytic design tools enabled CFM to further improve the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide approximately 25 percent lower NOx emissions. As a result, this engine will meet the new International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection emissions standards (CAEP /6) scheduled to take effect in early 2008. In addition, the engine’s 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by up to 200 tons per aircraft per year. Over the engine’s life cycle, CFM56 Tech Insertion should also provide Avianca with longer time on wing and lower maintenance costs through enhanced durability.

The CFM56-5B is the engine of choice for the Airbus A320 family and is popular with major airlines, low-cost carriers, and leasing companies alike. More than 3,000 CFM56-5B engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet is growing at a rate of about 40 engines per month. Primary factors behind the engine’s broad-based market acceptance include this industry’s best reliability, durability, low cost of ownership, and world-class customer and product support. The CFM56-5B is the only engine that can power every model of the A320 family, from the small A318 up to the A321, with the same bill of materials.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

19.03.2008, Messier-Bugatti;Messier-Dowty
Messier-Dowty and Messier-Bugatti jointly appoint Paul Kremer as VP Future Programs


Vélizy, France, 19 March, 2008

SAFRAN Group companies Messier-Dowty and Messier-Bugatti have appointed Paul Kremer as VP, Future Programs.

Reporting to the Chairmen of both companies, this newly created position will be responsible for all partnerships and technological research aimed at developing new products or new functions for future programs, with a specific focus on the next generation of New Short Range aircraft.

In further leveraging the technologies of two world leaders in landing and braking systems, SAFRAN is well poised to offer fully integrated solutions for the next generation of aircraft. SAFRAN currently supplies landing gear system and braking equipment for a large portfolio of airframer customers, including Airbus, Boeing, Dassault, Bombardier Aerospace, Hawker Beechcraft, Sukhoi and Airbus Military.

Paul Kremer, 46, joined the SAFRAN Group in 1997 in charge of business development for the Rocket Engines division of Snecma. He then joined Hispano-Suiza in 2000 where he managed the production unit of the Power Transmission Division. He was promoted to VP Strategy, R&T and External Communication in 2003 and later as VP Programs in 2006. Prior to joining SAFRAN, Paul Kremer held successive positions within French and European aerospace agencies, including l’ONERA, the European Space Agency and the French Ministry of Industry space department. Paul Kremer holds degrees in Business Administration and Optical Engineering.

***

Messier-Dowty, a SAFRAN group company, is the world leader in the design, development, manufacture and support of landing gear systems. Messier-Dowty landing gear are in service on more than 19,500 aircraft making over 35,000 landings every day. The company supplies 33 airframe manufacturers and supports 2,000 operators of large commercial aircraft, regional and business aircraft, military aircraft and helicopters. Messier-Dowty is also the majority shareholder of the worldwide MRO network, Messier Services. Messier-Dowty and Messier Services together have 4,300 employees across sites in Europe, North America and Asia, and posted consolidated sales of 826 million euros in 2007.

Messier-Bugatti, part of the SAFRAN Group, is a world leader in advanced braking. Wheels and carbon brakes by Messier-Bugatti are used on more than 3,400 aircraft, deployed by 250 airlines and 20 air forces around the world. Messier-Bugatti also supports its products through a global service network. As a specialist in systems engineering and integration, Messier-Bugatti also delivers excellence and innovative solutions in braking, steering, landing and monitoring (brakes, tires, landing gears) systems. A partner of Airbus for more than 30 years, Messier-Bugatti equips 9,000 aircraft with its systems. Messier-Bugatti is also a partner of Boeing, ATR and Dassault. With a global workforce of 1,500 employees mainly based in France, the United States and Singapore, Messier-Bugatti has annual sales of 430 million euros and invests some 15% of its revenues in R&D. Messier-Bugatti is certified to ISO 14001.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.messier-bugatti.com | www.messier-dowty.com

PRESS RELEASE

20.03.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité certified in Belgium for its MESTA range of automated speed control systems


Montrouge, March 20th, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) has received certification from Belgian authorities for its MESTA range of automated, digital speed control systems based on doppler technology, in both fixed and vehicle-mounted versions. The data collected by the Mesta 1000, 1200, 2000 and 2200 radar-based systems can be used to establish traffic tickets, and are legally binding.

The Mesta family of speed control systems, used in conjunction with an automated ticket management service, features state-of-the-art technologies: new-generation Doppler, color digital imaging, remote-controlled settings and secure transmission to a processing center. Furthermore, they are part of a complete range of traffic solutions offered by Sagem Sécurité, including automated red light control and license plate recognition systems, and automated ticket processing centers.

“Sagem Sécurité has confirmed its role as a major player in the fast-growing market for automated, road safety systems.” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “This certification is a major step for our cutting-edge solutions. It is paving the way for a promising future of our business in Belgium.”

Also certified in France, Sagem Sécurité’s speed control radars have been installed throughout the French highway system since 2003, as part of a program to improve road safety. This program has made France a leader in Europe, reducing the number of highway fatalities by 43% from 2002 to 2007 – or nearly 11,000 lives saved.

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Among the leading European security systems companies, it is present in four main areas: biometric systems, where it is the worldwide leader in fingerprint-based biometrics; secure terminals for access control, payments and gaming; road safety equipment and smart cards. Its products and integrated systems are used worldwide, helping to ensure transport safety, data and personal security and governmental safety capabilities at the highest level.
Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

27.03.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN names Quy Nguyen Vice President for Investor Relations and Financial Communication


Paris, March 27, 2008 – Quy Nguyen, 38, joined SAFRAN on March 25 as Vice President for Investor Relations and Financial Communication.

He is in charge of directing and coordinating SAFRAN’s relations with financial analysts and investors, and is responsible for setting up and ensuring the smooth operation of all financial communications and events: press releases, meetings with analysts, special investor days, etc.

Quy Nguyen is a graduate of the ESCP business school in Paris. He started his career as a financial analyst with CCF, then held the same job with Exane. Quy Nguyen moved to the Elior group in 2001 as head of investor relations and financial communication.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has 57,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

27.03.2008, Turbomeca
Inauguration of Beijing Turbomeca Changkong Aero-Engine Control Equipment Co. Ltd


Beijing, 27 March 2008

Beijing Turbomeca Changkong today launches its new activity. This joint venture assembles and tests hydro mechanical units of turboshaft engines for both Turbomeca and Beijing Changkong, for their respective markets. It is located 50 km North of Beijing in the Chinese partner new plant, located in a high-tech park.

A clear demonstration of the entry into operation with its relevant production agreement was given at the occasion. Fuel Control Units (FCU) and Hydro Mechanical Units (HMU) are assembled and tested in this new joint venture.

Among the control system concerned, the WZ8C HMU (licensed Arriel 2C) powering the H425 helicopter designed and produced by Harbin Aviation Industry, an AVIC II company. “Beijing Turbomeca Changkong marks a major advance in the development of Turbomeca’s helicopter business in China and the role Turbomeca intends to play, as well as for SAFRAN’s expanding range of partnerships in the country,” noted Emeric d’Arcimoles, chairman & CEO of Turbomeca. The joint venture obtained the JAR 21G Approval end December 2007.

In China, one helicopter out of two is equipped with Turbomeca engines or Turbomeca licensed products. As a reminder, a cooperation framework agreement was signed in 2005 with AVIC II (China Aviation Industry Corporation II), concerning the delivery of 200 Arriel 2C helicopter turboshaft engines to China, along with a partial production license. Turbomeca and AVIC II started working together in the 1980s, with a license for the Arriel 1 engine, initiated by China National South Aero Engine Corporation (SAEC).

****

About Beijing Turbomeca Changkong
Beijing Turbomeca Changkong Aero-Engine Control Equipment Co. Ltd is the first joint venture company between Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) and Beijing Changkong Machinery, an AVIC II company.

Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 25 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units. For more information, please visit our Web sites: www.turbomeca.com and www.safran-group.com. Beijing Changkong Machinery is the leader in the People’s Republic of China for the manufacture, assembly, test, delivery and after sales services, overhaul of aero-engines accessories, as control system of tail jet-orifice, and more specifically manufacture, assembly and test delivery and after services, overhaul of fuel governing systems for helicopter turbo-shaft engines.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

28.03.2008
Sagem Sécurité chosen to coordinate European Union biometrics and cryptography research project


Montrouge, March 28, 2008

Sagem Sécurité, a SAFRAN Group company, announced today that it has been chosen to coordinate the European research project TURBINE (TrUsted Revocable Biometric IdeNtitiEs) within the scope of the European Union’s 7th Research & Development Framework Program. Lasting three years, this project aims to develop advanced digital identity solutions, combining automatic fingerprint recognition and innovative cryptographic techniques.

Research efforts will focus on burying secret information inside a description of fingerprints, so that the secret can only be revealed by the person with the fingerprints. Calling on state-of-the-art cryptographic techniques, this research could lead to fundamental changes in the protection of personal data based on fingerprints. For example, it would be possible to design biometric personal data files, which could only be accessed with the explicit authorization of the owner of this private data.

“This research harbors the promise of creating a disruptive technology for information system protection based on biometric technologies,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “The consortium we are leading has both the international breadth and multidisciplinary expertise needed to rise to this challenge.”

The TURBINE consortium comprises major players in this sector, including Philips Research Europe, Sagem Orga, Precise Biometrics in Sweden, Cryptolog and ARTTIC in France and 3D-GAA in Greece, as well as the research labs K.U. Leuven in Belgium and Gjovik University College in Norway.

(*) TrUsted Revocable Biometric IdeNtitiEs

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Among the leading European security systems companies, it is present in four main areas: biometric systems, where it is the worldwide leader in fingerprint-based biometrics; secure terminals; road safety equipment and smart cards. Its products and integrated systems are used worldwide, helping to ensure transport safety, data and personal security and governmental safety capabilities at the highest level. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

01.04.2008, CFM International
Malaysia Airlines Selects CFM56-7B-Powered Boeing 737


KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia - April 1, 2008

Malaysia Airlines has announced an order for up to 55 CFM56-7B-powered Boeing 737-800 aircraft to replace its current Boeing 737-400 fleet. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2010 and the engine order for the 35 firm aircraft is valued at $475 million at list price. CFM56-7B engines are a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM is the world’s leading aircraft engine manufacturer, with more than 18,000 engines delivered to date.

"We selected the CFM56-7B-powered Boeing aircraft as our aim is to ensure that the aircraft for our core network will always be the latest in terms of technology " said Mr Idris Jala, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Airlines. "We plan to use the new aircraft primarily within the ASEAN region, including domestic Malaysia operations as well as routes to the growing areas such as China and India."

"We very pleased and honored that Malaysia Airlines has chosen to make CFM such an integral part of its recovery plan," said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM International. "We believe that the technology benefits provided by the CFM56-7B will help with long-time customer achieve it long-term goals."

The CFM56-7B26/3 engines powering the new Malaysia Airlines fleet will be the advanced Tech Insertion configuration, which will provide the airline with lower maintenance costs, improved oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions, and better fuel burn. Tech Insertion includes improvements to the high-pressure compressor, the combustor, and the high- and low-pressure turbines.

The CFM56-7B is the exclusive powerplant for the Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft family. More than 5,500 CFM56-7B engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet is growing at a rate of about 35 engines per month.
Primary factors behind the engine’s broad-based acceptance include this industry’s best reliability, durability, low cost of ownership, and world-class customer and product support.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

02.04.2008, Sagem Sécurité
United Arab Emirates selects Sagem Sécurité speed control radars


Montrouge, April 2nd, 2008

Following an international request for proposals (RFP), the Abu Dhabi police has chosen Sagem Sécurité’s (SAFRAN Group) Mesta automated speed control radars. The contract covers the supply, deployment and maintenance of these radars. *. The United Arab Emirates are the first in this area of the world to deploy this Doppler-based system featuring color digital imaging.

Following very stringent tests, the advanced technology offered by Sagem Sécurité was a decisive factor in the selection by the Abu Dhabi police, since it offers world leading performance in terms of speed measurement and image acquisition. Two cameras measure the speed of vehicles in up to six lanes, with unrivaled accuracy and image quality.

“This is totally in line with Abu Dhabi Police strategy to enforce public security and lower the number of casualties on the road achieving international levels and standards”, said Brigadier Ahmed Nasser Alraisi, General Director of Central Operations.

“Tests performed for the international RFP confirmed the top performance of our state-of-the-art systems,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “In addition, the excellent service quality delivered by our local staff since 1993 has built up a reservoir of trust that led to this selection by the United Arab Emirates.”

Sagem Sécurité already operates in this region as a supplier of integrated biometric identity systems. With this latest contract it bolsters its position in the booming security market and confirms its role in the fight to maintain road safety. Since 2003, some 2,000 Sagem Sécurité radars have been deployed along French roads. This program has made France one of the leaders in road safety in Europe: from 2002 to 2007 it reduced the number of highway fatalities by 43%, saving nearly 11,000 lives over the period.

* A prototype of this radar is currently on display at the Sagem Sécurité booth at the Intertraffic Amsterdam trade show.

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Among the leading European security systems companies, it is present in four main areas: biometric systems, where it is the worldwide leader in fingerprint-based biometrics; secure terminals; road safety equipment and smart cards. Its products and integrated systems are used worldwide, helping to ensure transport safety, data and personal security and governmental safety capabilities at the highest level. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

02.04.2008, Aircelle
Aircelle Executive Appointments


Le Havre, France, March 31, 2008,

Vincent Mascré, 50, was appointed Executive Vice-President of Aircelle on March 1, 2008.

A Graduate Engineer from the Paris Ecole Centrale, Vincent Mascré joined Snecma in 1981, holding various positions in studies, production, management control and purchasing. He was Managing Director of the Gennevilliers plant from 2002 to 2005 and directed the Rotating Parts Center of Industrial Excellence from 2006 to the present date.

As of April 1, Marc Laubreaux, 46, takes over as Vice-President Customer Support Division from Philippe Catté, who will move to another position within the SAFRAN Group.

A trained lawyer, Marc Laubreaux joined the SAFRAN group in 1998 to take part in the creation of Messier Services. He joined Aircelle in April 2002, successively holding the positions of Vice-President of Legal Affairs, and that of Vice-President of the Small Nacelles Division (regional and business aircraft) from January 2007 to the present date.

***

About Aircelle

Aircelle is one of the leading players in the worldwide nacelle market for aircraft engines. A member of the SAFRAN group, it employs approximately 3,500 persons at seven sites in France, the United Kingdom and Morocco. Aircelle is present on the majority of programs now in development, and offers a full product line for engines that range from small powerplants used on regional jets and corporate aircraft to high-thrust engines on the largest airliners.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.aircelle.com

PRESS RELEASE

03.04.2008, CFM International
Ural Airlines Selected CFM56-5B/3 to Power New A320 Family Aircraft


EKATERINBURG, Russia - April 3, 2008

Ural Airlines today announced that it has selected the CFM56-5B/3 engine to power seven new Airbus A320 aircraft scheduled to begin delivery in 2012.

CFM56-5B engine is a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM is the world’s leading aircraft engine manufacturer, with more than 18,000 engines delivered to date.

"We are extremely pleased that Ural Airlines has selected the CFM engines to power its new A320s fleet", said Eric Bachelet, President and CEO of CFM International. "We believe that the technology benefits provided by the CFM56-5B/3 will help our customer to achieve its long-term goals."

All of Ural Airlines new A320 aircraft will be equipped with advanced CFM56-5B/3 Tech Insertion Engines. The CFM56 Tech Insertion program, which was certified on A320 family aircraft in September 2007, incorporates advanced technologies that provide operators with lower maintenance costs and better environmental performance.

Improved analytic design tools enabled CFM to further improve the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide approximately 25 percent lower NOx emissions. As a result, this engine will meet the new International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection emissions standards (CAEP /6) scheduled to take effect in early 2008. In addition, the engine’s 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by up to 200 tons per aircraft per year.

Over the engine’s life cycle, CFM56 Tech Insertion should also provide Ural Airlines with longer time on wing and lower maintenance costs through enhanced durability.

The CFM56-5B/3 is the engine of choice for the Airbus A320 family and is popular with major airlines, low-cost carriers, and leasing companies alike. More than 3,000 CFM56-5B engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet is growing at a rate of about 40 engines per month. Primary factors behind the engine’s broad-based market acceptance include this industry’s best reliability, durability, low cost of ownership, and world-class customer and product support. The CFM56-5B/3 is the only engine that can power every model of the A320 family, from the small A318 up to the A321, with the same bill of materials.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma.com | www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

07.04.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN inaugurates three new facilities in China


Suzhou, China, April 7, 2008

The SAFRAN Group has established solid, long-standing relations with the Chinese aviation industry, including a growing industrial presence in the country. SAFRAN is now continuing its expansion policy, with the inauguration of three new production facilities in China.

SAFRAN Chief Executive Officer Jean-Paul Herteman inaugurated today two new Group plants, Snecma Suzhou Co. Ltd., and Messier-Dowty Suzhou Co. Ltd., in the Suzhou industrial park (80 kilometers from Shanghai). The inauguration ceremony was attended by Shi Heping, vice governor of the Jiangsu province, Yan Li, Mayor of Suzhou, representatives of the Chinese and French governments, and heads of SAFRAN Group companies.

These two new plants, spanning some 14,000 square meters, are located on the same site. Snecma Suzhou will produce components for CFM56-5B and -7B engines, while Messier-Dowty Suzhou will make components for Messier-Dowty landing gear.

“The plants being inaugurated today reflect our deep commitment to China and the growing importance of our collaborative ventures,” emphasized Jean-Paul Herteman. “Today, China is the leading client for our civil aviation products. And it is increasingly a world-class production source for us, under controlled and mutually beneficial conditions.”

The next inauguration will be on April 10, for Snecma Xinyi Airfoil Castings Co. Ltd., a partnership between Snecma and Guizhou Xinyi Machinery Factory (AVIC I). This new casting factory will make turbine parts for CFM56-2, -3, -5A, -5C and -7B engines.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has 57,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

11.04.2008, Sagem Mobiles
Project for the take-over of the customer services activity of Sagem Mobiles in Montauban (France) by ANOVO


Paris, April 11, 2008

Sagem Mobiles (SAFRAN Group) and ANOVO are announcing their project for the take over of the Customer Services Activity of Sagem Mobiles in Montauban (France) by the Group ANOVO, European leader of After Sales Services in digital technologies.

As part of its strategy, Sagem Mobiles is seeking to optimise and rationalise its costs. This line of action has already resulted in several types of industrial and commercial partnerships; with an operator, a mobile phone manufacturer and a luxury brand, among others. Consistent with this strategy, ANOVO appears to be the most obvious partner to sustain business on the Montauban site, within this project, ANOVO would continue to carry on Customer Services for Sagem Mobiles on Montauban site.

For ANOVO, this take-over would represent an exclusive pan-European five-year contract with Sagem Mobiles together with access to specific capabilities (hot-line, management of spare parts, product expertise and audit of the repair centres). Also, it would allow to develop offers for SAFRAN through a five year framework agreement currently under negotiation.

The successful outcome of this project should enable each party to strengthen its core activity.

***

About Sagem Mobiles
Sagem Mobiles (SAFRAN group) is a major actor on the mobile communications market. Present around the globe, Sagem Mobiles designs, develops, produces and markets ranges of mobile telephones using advanced technologies (fixed-mobile convergence, mobile TV, NFC/RFID identification solutions, etc.) together with a wide range of mobile phone accessories. Sagem Mobiles also develops and produces mobile phones for ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) offerings.

About ANOVO
With revenue of €317 million and 5,200 employees (2006/2007), ANOVO is the leading pan-european provider of after-sales services for the digital technologies used by major Telecommunications and Multimedia companies to deliver Triple Play (Voice/Data/Image) solutions. With 20 Centres of Excellence, ANOVO handles a high product turnover with an acknowledged level of quality.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem.com | www.a-novo.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.04.2008, Microturbo
Microturbo extends its product line to low-power jet engines


Toulouse – 14 April 2008

Microturbo continues to pursue its diversification strategy by expanding its product range to the TR-3, a new turbojet engine which develops 30 daN of thrust. With the TR-3, Microturbo now offers a thrust range of 30 to 600 daN.

The key features of the TR-3 are a streamlined architecture with a centrifugal compressor, a straight-flow combustor and a single-stage axial turbine. Although it shares a number of key technological features with other Microturbo turbojet engines, the TR 3 also integrates its own state-of-the-art technology, including not only a high-speed alternator (100,000 rpm) and a pyrotechnic igniter cartridge for virtually instant starting, but also innovative shaft bearings.

It is a highly compact unit (Length: 330 mm / Mass: 4 kg) which develops 30 daN of thrust, giving it a very high thrust-to-weight ratio. It also boasts an extended operating envelope of up to 30,000 ft, making it a perfect match for the current and futures requirements of expendable UAVs, target drones and missiles, which it can propel at speeds of up to Mach 0.8.

The TR-3 is the smallest turbojet engine proposed by Microturbo that is capable of operating under very harsh environmental conditions and is currently the only turbojet engine in its category to combine high performance, high quality and a large scale production capability without compromise.

***

Microturbo, a SAFRAN Group company and subsidiary of Turbomeca, is specialized in the design, development and production of low- to-medium-power gas turbine systems. Its activity focuses on three product lines: turbojet engines for missiles, target drones and unmanned aircraft, auxiliary power units, and starting systems.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.microturbo.com

PRESS RELEASE

21.04.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité to provide voter registration system for the Republic of Guinea


Montrouge, April 17th, 2008

Following an international request for proposals, the Inter-Agency Procurement Services Office* has chosen Sagem Sécurité to supply voter registration kits for the Republic of Guinea (Guinea-Conakry), within the scope of the United Nations Development Program** and the project for the registration and revision of voter lists (PERLE).

Sagem Sécurité will supply 1,000 portable enrollment stations and an Automatic Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the National Independent Electoral Commission. These systems will be used to register voters’ biometric data in order to establish secure voter lists.

The system’s ergonomic design and robustness, coupled with effective technology and ease of use, were the deciding factors in Guinea-Conakry’s selection. The country called on an international specialist in biometrics, with recognized expertise in addressing issues involved in voter registration. With more than 100 systems deployed in over 60 countries, Sagem Sécurité has already handled the registration of more than 200 million people around the world.

Through this latest contract, Sagem Sécurité confirms its major role in the United Nations Development Program, and also strengthens its leadership in the region. Sagem Sécurité is the world leader in automatic fingerprint identification systems and large-scale biometric systems.

* IAPSO: the IAPSO (Inter-Agency Procurement Services Office) is the only entity certified to support all UN agencies in the purchase of goods and services.

**UNDP: United Nations Development Program

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Among the leading European security systems companies, it is present in four main areas: biometric systems, where it is the worldwide leader in fingerprint-based biometrics; secure terminals; road safety equipment and smart cards. Its products and integrated systems are used worldwide, helping to ensure transport safety, data and personal security and governmental safety capabilities at the highest level. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.04.2008, Turbomeca
Turbomeca Growth in Canada: Celebrating Five Years of Activity


Bordes, 24 April 2008

On its fifth anniversary of operations in Canada, Turbomeca Canada is inaugurating a 16,000 square feet extension to satisfy increasing demand from operators of Turbomeca turboshaft engines, especially in Canada and North America.

The Mirabel site has enjoyed constant growth over its first five years. Since inaugurating the facilities with a team of 18 staff in 2003, the workforce has spiraled to 123 employees. In five years, Turbomeca Canada has repaired more than 700 engines and 1,000 fuel flow control units.

The Turbomeca Canada team chiefly specializes in repair and overhaul operations on Arriel 1 and Arriel 2 engines and accessories for its customers in North America. The TurboSupport Center is dedicated to supporting Arriel and Arrius engines.

The new extension will see Turbomeca Canada’s total surface area expand to almost 59,200 square feet. The additional 16,000 square feet accommodate a new receiving and shipping bay, new premises for the accessories workshop, and an additional accessories test bench. This extension allows Turbomeca Canada to be equipped with a supplementary space for the worldwide tooling management and to support more efficiency the operators, as well as TurboSupport Centers and repair centers.

This extension is also an opportunity for Turbomeca to revitalize its commitment to ongoing progress via the Lean approach. Several Lean tools and concepts were applied to maximize this opportunity to review layout and boost the efficiency of the organization.

The extension and fifth anniversary together mark a major milestone in Turbomeca’s expansion in Canada. Determined to provide the best possible support to its operators, Turbomeca Canada has also bolstered its customer support team to give an efficient response to every support request, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

***

About Turbomeca Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 26 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

29.04.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité records new order for SITEL information systems, to be deployed by the French army


Paris, April 29, 2008

French defense procurement agency DGA has officially placed an order with Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) for an additional batch of 500 SITEL information systems, to be deployed by the French army.

Part of an overall program for the French army to deploy 4,500 systems, this latest batch brings the number of systems ordered to date to nearly 1,000.

The SITEL system, designed for several different vehicle types, comprises a terminal with a touch screen and digital map, and an interface for tactical radio and navigation systems.

SITEL provides connectivity between basic units and combat vehicles and is interoperable with the army’s other information systems, especially the one used in the FELIN* integrated equipment suite (soldier modernization program). It allows both combat and support units to stock and share information on tactical situations, along with mission planning and specific services for different weapon systems.

SITEL is already deployed by the 2nd Armored brigade and the 6th Light armored brigade.

* Fantassin à Equipements et Liaisons Intégrés – Dismounted Soldier System.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. Organized in two divisions, Sagem Avionics and Sagem Optronics and Defense, Sagem Défense Sécurité is a world leader in its core businesses. The Sagem Avionics Division covers two main sectors: inertial navigation, where it is No. 1 in Europe and No. 3 worldwide; and aircraft systems, including world leadership in helicopter flight controls. The Sagem Optronics and Defense Division designs and develops thermal vision equipment and air-land systems, and is the European leader in surveillance and fire control optronics. Through SAFRAN, Sagem Défense Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

30.04.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité once again selected by Malaysia for new-generation biometric ID system


Paris, April 30th, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) announced today that it has been selected by Malaysia, in international bidding, to supply the latest version of its MetaMorpho™ 4.0 automated fingerprint identification system (AFIS). Designed for use in criminal cases, this new-generation AFIS will replace the current system deployed by the Royal Malaysian Police, also supplied by Sagem Sécurité.

MetaMorpho 4.0 features the latest biometric comparison algorithms developed by Sagem Sécurité. This new version will provide a significant improvement in performance over the current system, and help meet emerging real-time criminal identification requirements. Sagem Sécurité will deliver a turnkey ten-finger and palm identification solution to Malaysia, based on a central AFIS workstation and several dedicated stations. Several mobile stations will meet the requirements of rapid mobilization task forces.

Commenting on this latest contract, Sagem Sécurité Chairman and CEO Jean-Paul Jainsky said: “Malaysia was a pioneer in biometric applications, and remains a global leader in this field. We are both proud and honored that the Royal Malaysian Police has once again placed their trust in us by ordering one of our state-of-the-art identification solutions.”

Sagem Sécurité’s advanced technology was once again a decisive factor in the selection by the Royal Malaysian Police. Having already provided an AFIS system to Malaysia for ID cards and passports, Sagem Sécurité further consolidates its position as the world’s leading supplier of biometric identification systems, now deployed in more than 60 countries worldwide.

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading providers of identification solutions, it is specialized in rights management and physical or logical access applications based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, plus secure terminals and smart cards. Integrated systems and equipment by Sagem Sécurité are used worldwide to ensure transport safety, data and personal security, and high-level governmental security. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

06.05.2008, CFM International
Futura Airlines Takes Delivery of First CFM-Powered 737-900ER


PALMA, Spain - May 6, 2008

In a ceremony here today Futura International Airways and CFM International celebrated delivery of the airline’s first CFM56-7B-powered Boeing 737-900ER aircraft, as well as the achievement of one million flight hours by the airlines fleet of CFM56-powered 737 fleet.
CFM56 engines are a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM is the world’s leading aircraft engine manufacturer, with more than 18,250 engines delivered to date.

"We’re obviously pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with Futura," said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM International. "We are pleased that CFM has played some role in its ongoing success and, on behalf of the entire CFM team, I congratulate them on achieving this significant milestone".

Futura, a charter carrier more than 50 percent owned by it employees, became a CFM customer in 1989 when it began operating the CFM56-3-powered 737-400. Today, the airline has 32 aircraft, both 737-400s and Next-Generation 737-800s.

The CFM56-7B engines powering Futura’s new 737-900 aircraft are the Tech Insertion configuration, which incorporates advanced technologies developed and validated as part of Project TECH56 to provide operators with lower maintenance costs. Improved analytic design tools developed as part of this program have enable CFM to further optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions, allowing the engine to meet the new International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Committee of Aviation Environmental Protection emissions standards (CAEP/6) scheduled to take effect in 2008. In addition, the engine’s 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by 200 tons per aircraft per year.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.05.2008, Snecma Services
Snecma Services and TAP Portugal extend cooperation in CFM56 maintenance


Paris, May 13, 2008 – TAP Portugal, the national flag carrier of Portugal, and Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) have signed agreements that enhance both companies’ cooperation in CFM56 maintenance. A two-year agreement covering the repair of high and low pressure nozzle guide vanes for CFM56-3, -5C, -5B, -7B engines handled by TAP’s maintenance unit was signed, adding to the several others already in place, namely one for the repair of CFM56-3 HP turbine blades signed two years ago. Snecma Services’ Châtellerault facility in France, the company’s Repair Center of Excellence, will handle this latest contract, including inspection and repair services that meet TAP’s turnaround time (TAT) requirements. A CFM56 overhaul maintenance agreement was also signed, enabling TAP to receive and overhaul engines from and on behalf of Snecma Services. Snecma Services will benefit from the added shop visit planning flexibility created by this over-flow agreement, and also by benefiting from TAP’s airline expertise, and long standing overhaul and customer experience. “We are very satisfied with these new agreements” said Jorge Sobral, member of the board of directors of TAP Portugal for Maintenance and Engineering. “The improvement of service on the parts repair contracts allows us to add more value and reduce costs for both TAP and our customers. On the other hand, our overhauling for Snecma Services creates a balanced environment for the increasing cooperation between the two companies”. Denis Vercherin, Chairman and CEO of Snecma Services, added: “Expanding our relations with TAP Maintenance and Engineering is a very positive move for both of our companies. This latest collaboration on parts repair proves our ability to combine competitive prices with OEM repair quality. It’s a win-win situation for both companies, and provides an excellent opportunity to bolster our ties.” With several decades of operational experience in engine maintenance, TAP Maintenance & Engineering is proud to be part of the restricted number of maintenance organisations that provide services in the complete commercial range of CFM56 family engines. TAP Engine Shop overhaul per year more than 120 engines. Snecma Services, a CFM56 OEM shop, offers a complete range of engine MRO and parts repair services. With more than 140 customers around the world, including airlines, repair shops and leasing companies, Snecma Services is considered one of the world leaders in CFM56 MRO.

***

TAP Maintenance & Engineering is the MRO of TAP Portugal, the Lisbon based operator. Its portfolio of maintenance services includes the overhaul of CFM56-3, -5A, -5B, -5C and -7B, JT3, JT8, and RB211 engines; airframe maintenance on Airbus A300-600, A310, A330, A340 and A320 Family, Boeing B737 and Lockheed L1011; components maintenance, material support and engineering services. TAP Maintenance and Engineering is a member of Airbus MRO Network. Visit TAP Maintenance & Engineering online at www.tapme.pt

Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) provides a full range of aero-engine support services to operators worldwide (airlines, armed forces, lessors, VIP transport, etc.) including: engine MRO, parts repair, engineering support (fleet management, remote diagnostics), LRU support, engine maintenance on site (EMOS), technical assistance, tools, technical documentation, test cell calibration, engine leasing, flight test support, customer support, mechanics training and more. Snecma Services operates three sites in France (Montereau, Saint-Quentin and Châtellerault) and has a Belgian subsidiary, Snecma Services Brussels. The company has also created a number of joint ventures with major airlines and manufacturers.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma-services.com | www.tapme.pt

PRESS RELEASE

14.05.2008, Sagem Sécurité
One million crossings of the IRIS* barrier delivered by Sagem Sécurité to the United Kingdom


Montrouge, May 14th, 2008

Sagem Sécurité is delighted to announce that since January 2006, the IRIS* automated biometric border crossing systems delivered to the United Kingdom have successfully identified over one million passengers. These identification systems are used for the automated ID checks of pre-enrolled travellers at borders. They are based on iris recognition and ensure frequent travellers a fast, secure immigration process in Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester airports.

Real-time verification by Immigration Officers of arriving passengers’ entitlement to enter the country can be a time-consuming process. With the IRIS* biometric barrier, any frequent traveller citizen of a European Union country can enrol in the system before travelling by registering his unique iris pattern as his identifier. Once enrolled, the passenger can pass through the IRIS* barrier by proving his iris identity. The IRIS* system allows trusted travellers to self-process through immigration control quickly and without need for further checks.

This important milestone follows Sagem Sécurité’s selection in Oman and Jordan for the deployment of identification systems based on iris recognition at over 100 sites, mainly border control crossing stations and airports. It confirms Sagem Sécurité’s expertise and world leading position in multi-biometric technologies.

*IRIS: Iris Recognition Immigration System

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. As a world leader of identification solutions, Sagem Sécurité is specialized in people’s rights management and physical and logical access applications based on biometrics, as well as secure terminals and smart cards. Integrated systems and equipment by Sagem Sécurité are used worldwide to ensure transport safety, data and personal security, and high-level governmental security. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité operates worldwide.

In the United Kingdom, Sagem Sécurité is represented by Sagem Security UK Ltd.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.05.2008, Teuchos
Teuchos sign a partnership agreement with the HICP Singapore


Montigny le Bretonneux (France), May 16, 2008 -

Teuchos, the engineering subsidiary of Safran Group, signed a partnership agreement with Singapore’s Institute of High Performance Computing on 6 May 2008.

The agreement consists of the establishment of a joint research laboratory in the domain of fluid mechanics and structures.

Teuchos employs 1600 employees across France, Spain, Germany, Morocco and India. This partnership contributes to the international development of the company and reinforces the company’s capabilities in mechanics.

IHPC is a scientific computing research organisation under the umbrella of the Agency of Science, Technology and Research (A*Star) with 160 full time researchers with almost 90% possessing Ph.D degrees in areas such as computational chemistry, fluid dynamics and mechanics. IHPC’s mandate is to develop core capabilities in computational science, in domains key to Singapore’s economic sectors, namely; engineering, electronics, chemicals and infocommunications.

This agreement with Teuchos to establish a joint research lab in computational mechanics is a step towards applying and translating the skill sets to industry as it allows the Institute to exhibit the relevance and importance of applying the computational domain to real-life complex issues faced by the industry.

***

Teuchos, subsidiary of the Safran group is a major player in the Aeronautics and Electronics industries over 30 countries worldwide. Teuchos provides engineering services mainly to transportation industries : Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Space for major customers such as EADS, DGA, Airbus, Eurocopter, Renault, PSA and of course for all companies within the Safran group through firm and fixes price or technical assistance.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.teuchos.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.05.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN opens new engine maintenance facility in Mexico


Querétaro, May 16, 2008

The SAFRAN Group, which already has extensive operations in North America, is further expanding its presence with the opening of a new CFM56 maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility in Querétaro, Mexico.

Jean-Paul Herteman, Chief Executive Officer of SAFRAN, and José-Manuel Manzanedo Diaz, Chairman of ITR, today inaugurated the new Snecma Services subsidiary, Snecma America Engine Services (SAMES) in Querétaro. Also attending the ceremony were Bruno Ferrari, representing Eduardo Sojo, Mexican minister of the economy; director of Promexico and Francisco Garrido-Patron, Governor of the State of Querétaro.

The opening of this new MRO facility, dedicated to CFM56-5A, -5B and -7B aircraft engines, reflects Snecma Services’ commitment to expanding its industrial capabilities and worldwide support network. With the opening of SAMES, Snecma Services moves closer to its airline customers in North and South America, to deliver the optimised services they expect in a very competitive market.

Strategically located in the Americas, SAMES is the first CFM56 MRO facility in the region affiliated with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Starting operation in record time, this new facility features state-of-the-art machinery, equipment and information systems. Its location also gives it easy access to ITR’s resources, including the engine test cell. ITR is a 49% partner in SAMES.

During the opening ceremony Jean-Paul Herteman said: “The inauguration of this new facility clearly reflects the importance of Mexico in SAFRAN’s international development strategy. For our group, the dynamic Mexican economy, plus access to qualified labor in the U.S. dollar zone, allows us to offer our services at very competitive prices while still guaranteeing OEM quality. I am sure that our current investments will spur further development and partnerships with Mexican industry.”

JM Manzanedo Diaz, Chairman ITR said: “We are very satisfied with this partnership with Snecma Services which reinforces the relations of the ITP group with the SAFRAN group. Snecma America Engine services progresses in accordance with our objectives and ITR will do everything within its power to guarantee the success of SAMES.”

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has 60,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

Turborreactores, S.A. de C.V. - ITR provides worldwide the following services: Engine MRO for JT8D-STD, JT8D-200 & TPE-331, parts and accessories repair, engine maintenance on site, technical assistance, design and development engineering services for aircraft engine programs, engineering support (fleet management), technical documentation, manufacturing of components and engine leasing.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

20.05.2008, SAFRAN
MBDA and SAFRAN sign guided weapons cooperation agreement


May 20, 2008 - MBDA France and Sagem Défense Sécurité signed a cooperation agreement on May 14 concerning the modular air-to-ground weapon (AASM) and infrared guidance for tactical missiles.

The agreement was signed by Antoine Bouvier, Chief Executive Officer of MBDA, and Jean-Lin Fournereaux, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Défense Sécurité. Also present at the signing ceremony was Jean-Paul Herteman, Chief Executive Officer of the SAFRAN Group.

Under the terms of the agreement, MBDA France will be responsible for all sales and marketing of the AASM family developed by Sagem Défense Sécurité. The two companies will also combine their respective areas of expertise to form a close partnership for the joint development of future versions of the AASM family.

The AASM is an all-weather precision weapon, comprising a guidance kit and a range extension kit that can be added to standard warheads. It is made in two versions. The version with inertial guidance and GPS, offering “10-meter” accuracy, is already deployed by the French air force in foreign operations. A “1-meter” version, including an infrared seeker, is now being qualified. French armed forces have already ordered 700 AASM systems, including both versions.

The AASM family will join MBDA France’s range of tactical weapons for aircraft, allowing the AASM family to be included in any comprehensive offers aimed at meeting the requirements of air forces worldwide.

MBDA France and Sagem Défense Sécurité also agreed to leverage the commercial and technical synergies associated with their respective positions to propose highly competitive solutions to air forces around the world.

For infrared guided missiles, this agreement extends a collaboration between MATRA and SAT that started more than 50 years ago, and was consolidated in 1987 with the creation of the ADISM consortium. This consortium developed the infrared seekers for the MAGIC, MISTRAL and MICA IR missiles.

Through this latest cooperation agreement, MBDA France and Sagem Défense Sécurité continue to offer world-class solutions for tomorrow’s French and European missiles.

***

MBDA
With annual sales of more than €3 billion, an order book exceeding €13 billion and over 70 customers around the world, MBDA is one of the leading missile system companies in the world. MBDA currently has 45 operational programs for missile systems and countermeasures and has proven its leadership in the management of large multinational defense projects. MBDA is jointly held by BAE SYSTEMS (37.5%), EADS (37.5%) and FINMECCANICA (25%).

SAFRAN
SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has 60,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.mbda-systems.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

19.05.2008, Snecma
Snecma completes Silvercrest core demonstrator testing with very successful results


Geneva, Switzerland, May 19, 2008

Snecma (SAFRAN Group) announced today the successful completion of a series of tests of the Silvercrest engine core demonstrator. To date, the core has logged 80 hours of operations, including more than 60 hours ignited, in less than four months. During these tests, the core reached its nominal takeoff speed of 20,300 rpm.

The test campaign started at the end of November 2007 at Snecma’s Villaroche plant near Paris, using a test cell specifically designed for core testing, and was completed on March 31, 2008. This series of tests has validated the core architecture, integration and performance. At the same time, these tests confirmed the outstanding level of performance and efficiency of the compressor, combustor and high-pressure turbine, along with the dynamic performance of the entire demonstrator.

“We only needed 26 months to validate the architecture of the Silvercrest core demonstrator,” emphasized François Planaud, vice president and general manager of Snecma’s commercial engine division. “We met and in most cases exceeded all our performance objectives, so we’re very satisfied with the demonstration program, for which the next step will be to analyze the results in detail. Based on these excellent results, we are pursuing our work on the Silvercrest business jet propulsion system project, and are confident that this is the right product for the 9 500 to 12,000 thrust class for business jet applications."

Snecma is the first engine manufacturer to have validated a new engine concept in the 10,000-pound-thrust class by testing a core demonstrator. The success of this initial series of tests marks a major milestone in the program, leading to an optimized concept for the complete engine. The Silvercrest engine family, developing 9,500 to 12,000 pounds of thrust, is designed to power super-midsize and large, wide-cabin, long-range business jets.

Silvercrest will offer significant improvements over the current generation of business jet engines in terms of performance, reliability and environmental friendliness. The design of these engines also makes them apt for next-generation regional jets in the 40 to 60 seat class, when operators begin to replace their current fleets.

Snecma, SAFRAN Group, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of aircraft and space engines, with a wide range of propulsion systems on offer. The company designs and builds commercial aircraft engines that are powerful, reliable, economical and environmentally friendly, along with military aircraft engines that have always delivered world-class performance. Snecma develops and produces propulsion systems and equipment for launch vehicles and satellites. CFM56 engines are produced and marketed by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma and General Electric.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.silvercrest.aero | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

20.05.2008, Snecma
Successful first flight of SaM146-powered Sukhoi Superjet 100


Paris, France, May 20, 2008.

On May 19, the SaM146-powered Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft completed with success its first flight at Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Russia, beginning the flight-testing program that will lead to the aircraft certification. During this one hour and five minutes flight, the SaM146 engines powered the Superjet 100 to an altitude of 4,000 feet. The engines, together with the aircraft, performed as expected and demonstrated their excellent behaviour.

“ We are very proud of this success, and thoroughly congratulate Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Company said Jean Paul Ebanga, Chairman and CEO of PowerJet. This event is a major step for the SaM146 program development. It also demonstrates Snecma and NPO Saturn’s ability to deliver a state-of-the-art propulsion system dedicated to the new generation of regional jets.”

This first Superjet 100 flight follows an extensive ground and flight testing program on the SaM146 in which the test engines accumulated to date more than 1,100 running test hours. A total of eight SaM146 engines will be used for certification testing.

The SaM146 is developed by PowerJet, a joint-venture between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and NPO Saturn. It is designed specifically for regional jets of the new generation. It features the most up-to-date design based on the experience of the two mother companies, and the close partnership that they have built to bring this programme to success.

***

PowerJet, founded in July 2004, is a joint venture of Snecma (SAFRAN Group) of France and NPO Saturn of Russia. The company is in charge of the SaM146 engine program management, including development, production, marketing and sales, as well as customer support and MRO services. In April 2003, the SaM146 engine was selected by Sukhoi Civil Aircraft to power its Superjet 100 regional jet.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

PRESS RELEASE

27.05.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité identity solutions chosen by Côte d’Ivoire


Montrouge, May 27th, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) announced today that it has been chosen by the Côte d’Ivoire, in international competitive bidding, to supply systems and manage population and voter registration operations in the country. These operations will be carried out in conjunction with the National Institute of Statistics (INS) and the Independent Electoral Board (CEI). 6,000 Automatic Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) stations at 11,000 sites, will update the register of all citizens and voting lists. Sagem Sécurité will then issue 11 million high-security ID smart cards (including a chip), and 9 million voter cards.

“Our expertise in biometric identification systems and data security is recognized around the world, and we are also very experienced in managing large-scale projects of this type,” noted Jean-Paul Jainsky, chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “We will be providing proven technical resources, as well as the human resources needed to handle project execution, technology transfer and ensuring the long-term viability of our systems.”

Patrick Lodola, director of the Identification Solutions program, added: “Sagem Sécurité is a pioneer in the design and development of large-scale ID programs based on fingerprints. We are the only prime contractor in this field with expertise in all the areas needed to produce a complete identification system, including smart cards, terminals, encryption and biometrics. Our biometric ID solutions call on advanced algorithms, which have been shown to be the most reliable and interoperable on the market, according to leading certification authorities.”

A recognized expert in biometrics and world leader in automatic fingerprint identification systems, Sagem Sécurité have already produced 100,000 biometric sensors and issued 100 million biometric identity documents in 70 countries. To date, 400 million persons have been registered using Sagem Sécurité technologies.

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. As a world leader of identification solutions, Sagem Sécurité is specialized in people’s rights management and physical and logical access applications based on biometrics, as well as secure terminals and smart cards. Integrated systems and equipment by Sagem Sécurité are used worldwide to ensure transport safety, data and personal security, and high-level governmental security. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

28.05.2008, Turbomeca
Turbomeca and the Czech Police Aviation Department sign a support contract


Bordes, 28 May 2008

During the ILA Air show (Berlin), Turbomeca and the Czech Police Aviation Department signed a support contract. This contract concerns the maintenance, repair and overhaul of the 16 Arrius 2B2 powering the eight EC 135T2 of the Czech Police.

The contract concerns also the technical assistance from Turbomeca, as well as instruction courses during two years. 100% of the EC 135 helicopters in service in Czech Republic are powered by Turbomeca.

The Arrius 2B2 has a TBO of 3,500 hours. It benefits from the latest Turbomeca technology, offering a thermal power at OEI rating more than 8% better than its predecessor the Arrius 2B1/2B1A.

The Arrius 2B2 is the first engine to offer the facility to use the emergency OEI 30”/2’ ratings several times without engine maintenance.

The customer also benefits from a computerised maintenance aid which allows them to process the data downloaded from the EECU. The engines in the Arrius family draw upon the experience gained from over 3,000 engines sold, logging more than 3,400,000 flight hours with 430 customers in 60 countries.

***

About Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 26 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

28.05.2008, SAFRAN
Pascale Dubois named VP, Communications at SAFRAN


Paris, May 28, 2008

Pascale Dubois, 45, has been appointed Vice President for Communications in the SAFRAN Group, effective May 26. She replaces Françoise Descheemaeker, who was recently named Chairman and CEO of Safran Conseil and director of Group patronage programs.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security, and Communications. It has 57,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 11 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

06.06.2008, Turbomeca
Appointments in Turbomeca


In the wake of Pierre Fabre’s appointment as Chairman and CEO, Turbomeca is bringing in changes to enhance customer focus in its organization. This focus will be driven through the new organization by a Vice President & General Manager, Airframers and a Vice President & General Manager, Operators.

The following appointments are effective as of 2 June 2008.

Philippe Couteaux is appointed Vice President & General Manager, Airframers.
Didier Desnoyer is appointed Vice President & General Manager, Operators.
Eric Dalbiès is appointed Vice President, Chairman’s office.
Laurent Delange is appointed Vice President, Quality.
Philippe Larrauri is appointed Vice President, Assembly and Repair Operations.
Serge Maillé is appointed Vice President, Customer Support and Sales.
Pierre-Yves Morvan is appointed Vice President, Supply Chain, Purchasing and Information Systems.

Philippe Couteaux is a graduate engineer from the Ecole Supérieure des Travaux Publics and the Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Aérospatiales. He joined Messier Bugatti, in the Group that has since become SAFRAN, in 1987 as manager of new landing gear programs, going on to become head of sales in the braking department. Later, based in the U.K., he held the positions of VP, Marketing and VP, Sales and Programs in Messier Dowty. From there, he joined Snecma Engines in 2000 as deputy VP Testing and went on to become VP, development in the space engines division. In 2003, he rose to the position of VP Programs for high power engines with Snecma. It was in June 2006 that Philippe Couteaux arrived in Turbomeca where, until now, he has been VP, Aero Engines.

Didier Desnoyer is a graduate from the Toulouse-based Ecole Nationale Supérieure de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace, and holds a Master of Sciences degree from the Université Laval (Canada), and an engineering doctorate from the ONERA-CERT. He entered Turbomeca in 1992 beginning his career in Aerospatiale and the Société Européenne de Propulsion. Successively VP, Auxiliary Power Units programs and VP, Repairs, Didier Desnoyer took up the position VP, Operator Support in 1997.

Eric Dalbiès is a graduate from the Ecole Polytechnique and the Ecole Nationale Supérieure de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace. He joined the Group in 1992, entering the Société Européenne de Propulsion at Vernon (now the Snecma Space Engines division). There, he held several positions from systems studies engineer to engine pre-projects, up to Snecma VP, Rocket Engine programs in 2005, with spells as program engineering project manager for the HM7 engine and then VINCI. He joined Turbomeca in 2005 where, until now he was VP Information Systems.

Laurent Delange, a graduate aeronautical engineer from the Ecole Nationale Supérieure de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace in Toulouse, entered Turbomeca in 2006 to take the position of Group VP, production quality. Before that, his career included spells with the SEP at Vernon where he became head of the Dependability & Reliability department in 1989, then with CALOR as plant manager and VP Operations from 1995 to 1999, and finally with the SEB group as Group VP, Quality from 1999 to 2006.

Philippe Larrauri holds an engineering degree from the Ecole supérieure des travaux publics, supplemented by a specialised degree from the Ecole supérieure de fonderie, and possesses a Master in Management. He has developed three key competencies: industrialization, quality and production systems in the course of his career with the Messier Foundry from 1990 to 1997, Schlumberger from 1997 to 2001 and Valeo, the market leader in automobile equipment manufacture from 2001 to 2004. Prior to the present nomination, Philippe Larrauri held the post of VP, Quality in Turbomeca since September 2004.

Serge Maillé is a graduate engineer from the INSA, completed by a propulsion specialization within the Ecole Nationale Supérieure de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace. After joining Turbomeca in 1983, he occupied successively the functions of project technical engineer for the RTM 322, until 1990, Turbomeca technical representative at Marignane, until 1992, head of project technical support, head of technical support department and, from 2005 onwards, head of customer support piloting and technical and commercial assistance department.

Pierre-Yves Morvan holds an engineering degree from the Estaca and entered Turbomeca in 1990 at Bordes, where he worked in the production department until 1995. That year, he joined the Sofrance subsidiary where he became head of the sales division in 1999. On January 1st 2002, he took on the post of head of the sales department in the operator support division of Turbomeca at Tarnos. On December 1st 2004, he assumed the position of VP, production in Bordes, Turbomeca’s head offices. Since January 2006, he has been VP supply chain division there.

***

About Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 26 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.06.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
MBDA orders from Sagem Défense Sécurité new infrared thermal imager for Eryx land warfare weapon system


Eurosatory Exhibition, Villepinte, June 17, 2008

MBDA has just ordered from Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) close to 300 new-generation thermal imagers to equip the firing posts of its Eryx anti-tank missiles.

Building on developments made in the FELIN* program, the thermal imager uses new uncooled infrared technology. It offers users of the weapon system numerous technical/operational advantages: compactness, low weight, noiselessness, ease of use and enhanced autonomy.

This contract makes Sagem Défense Sécurité the supplier of reference for uncooled infrared imagers for the Eryx land weapon system.

The imager provides new operational advantages for night combat; namely its range matches the missile’s maximum range. It is available for new equipment or for upgrading existing weapons systems.

At Eurosatory 2008, the new imager is displayed on the MBDA stand integrated on an Eryx system.

To date, the armed forces of eight countries use or have ordered more than 3 500 Eryx firing posts.

This order reinforces the cooperation between the two companies in the field of missiles and tactical weapons, a partnership reinforced by a recent agreement on AASM (Modular air-to ground weapon).

* French program for an integrated system for the dismounted soldier

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

MBDA
With annual sales of more than €3 billion, an order book exceeding €13 billion and over 70 customers around the world, MBDA is one of the leading missile system companies in the world. MBDA currently has 45 operational programs for missile systems and countermeasures and has proven its leadership in the management of large multinational defense projects.
MBDA is jointly held by BAE SYSTEMS (37.5%), EADS (37.5%) and FINMECCANICA (25%).

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.06.2008, SAFRAN
Launch of OEM Defence Services, an innovative company dedicated to military aerospace equipment support


Paris, Eurosatory, 17 June 2008 – Diehl Aerospace, Liebherr Aerospace, Safran, Thales and Zodiac have today signed an agreement to create a company called OEM Defence Services.

The new company will provide the armed forces with innovative through-life support solutions for their aerospace equipment.
Operating in an European frame, in close partnership with users, OEM Defence Services will improve the competitiveness of the support of equipments, thanks to streamlining the entire maintenance supply chain. The company will thus be able to take commitments of availability to users identical to those of the civil aviation services sector.

The launch of OEM Defence Services coincides with :

  • the service entry of new aircraft platforms developed under European cooperation programmes - the NH90 and Tiger helicopters and soon the A400M military transport -,
  • the strict budget limitations faced by the armed forces today.

The joint company will be fully operational in a few weeks, once legal formalities are complete.

***

Editor note

The OEM Defence Services comprises the support of a wide range of equipment, developed and produced by the following OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) companies :

  • Diehl Aerospace GmbH(1),
  • Liebherr Aerospace, Liebherr Aerospace Toulouse SAS(1), Lindenberg GmbH,
  • Groupe SAFRAN : Messier-Bugatti, Messier-Dowty, Messier Services, Sagem Défense Sécurité(1), Technofan,
  • Groupe Thales : Thales Avionics SA(1) , Thales Systèmes Aéroportés SA, Thales Avionics Electrical Systems SA, Thales Communications SA, Thales Optronique SA,
  • Groupe Zodiac : Zodiac Services Europe SAS(1), Intertechnique SAS, ECE, IN-LHC, AVOX Systems, IN-Services SA, Precilec.

(1) OEM Defence Services Shareholders

About Diehl Aerospace
Diehl Aerospace develops innovative avionics solutions for cockpit display system, flight management system, cabin systems, utilities as well as for engines command system. These systems are embedded on civil and military platforms such as Airbus, Boeing, Embraer, Bell, Eurocopter, the NH90, the Tiger, the Eurofighter, the Tornado and the A400M.

About Liebherr-Aerospace
Liebherr-Aerospace SAS, Toulouse (France) is one of nine divisional control companies in the Liebherr Group and coordinates all activities in the aerospace and transportation system sectors. Liebherr is a leading supplier of systems for the aviation industry and has more than four decades of experience in this field. The range of aviation equipment produced by Liebherr for the civil and military sectors includes flight control and actuation systems, hydraulic systems, landing gear and air management systems. These systems are deployed in wide-bodied aircraft, commuter and regional aircraft, business jets, combat aircraft, military transporters, military training aircraft, civil helicopters and combat helicopters. Liebherr’s aerospace and transportation systems division employs around 3,400 people and has three aviation equipment production plants at Lindenberg (Germany), Toulouse (France) and Guaratinguetá (Brazil). These production sites offer a worldwide service with additional customer service centers in Saline (Michigan/USA), Seattle (Washington/USA), Montreal (Canada), Singapore, Shanghai (People’s Republic of China), Wuhan (People’s Republic of China) and Moscow (Russia).

About SAFRAN
SAFRAN is an international high-technology group, primarily operating in the aerospace (propulsion and equipment), defense and security markets. The SAFRAN Group generates over 12 billion euros in annual sales and has 63,000 employees worldwide. Through this global presence SAFRAN not only enhances its competitiveness, but also builds industrial and commercial relations with the world’s leading prime contractors and operators, and provides local services to customers around the world. SAFRAN operates through more than 100 companies with prestigious brand names and holds, alone or in partnership, world or European leadership positions in its core markets.

About Thales
Thales is a leading international electronics and systems group, addressing defence, aerospace and security markets worldwide. Thales’ leading-edge technology is supported by 22,000 R&D engineers who offer a capability unmatched in Europe to develop and deploy field-proven mission-critical information systems. To this end, the group’s civil and military businesses develop in parallel and share a common base of technologies to serve a single objective: the security of people, property and nations. The group builds its growth on its unique multi-domestic strategy based on trusted partnerships with national customers and market players, while leveraging its global expertise to support local technology and industrial development. Thales employs 68,000 people in 50 countries with 2007 revenues of €12.3 billion.

About Zodiac
Zodiac is a global entity involved in a diverse range of high tech businesses, Zodiac also bases its business growth on selection of dynamic markets and world leadership in its main business segments:

- Aerosafety Systems - World leader in emergency evacuation slides, helicopter floats, flexible fuel cells and de-icing systems, wiring protection and electrical interconnect systems, emergency arresting systems, protection and parachute systems.

- Aircraft Systems - World-recognized specialist in high-tech equipment and systems for essential flight functions. World leader in oxygen systems. Top manufacturer of fuel and electrical power management systems.

- Cabin Interiors - Passenger and crew seats, integrated cabin systems and equipment, floor-to-floor interiors. World leader in cabin interiors and systems, passenger seats and integrated water and waste systems.

- Zodiac Services (Starting September 1st 2008) will manage aftermarket activities for most of the aerospace products of the Zodiac group.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

PRESS RELEASE

18.06.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité delivers its 1000th SIGMA 30 gyrolaser artillery pointing system


Eurosatory Exhibition, Villepinte, June 18, 2008

On the occasion of the Eurosatory 2008 Exhibition, Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) announces it has delivered the 1000th SIGMA 30 inertial pointing system to Thales for its 2R2M 120mm mobile mortar system.

Developed and produced by Sagem Défense Sécurité, the SIGMA 30 is a land-based pointing and navigation system for artillery pieces, enabling highly accurate firing on short notice, even without the use of GPS.

The SIGMA 30 has been chosen for several major artillery programs, namely Nexter Systems’ CAESAR and BAE Systems’ Archer cannon systems, as well as for upgrading the European MLRS multiple rocket-launcher systems.

Sagem Défense Sécurité meets the artillery needs of many countries with a range of world-class equipment and solutions: optronic sensors, fire control, computers, digital cartography, navigation and pointing systems, advanced air-land observation systems and systems integration.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

19.06.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité to Provide Biometric Systems for UK Visa and Resident Permit Applicants


Paris, June 19th, 2008 – Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) is pleased to announce its selection by the UK Home Office to supply the biometric management system for UK visa applicants and the biometric management subsystem for the Biometric Residents Permit (BRP) project. These systems will provide the means to track the immigration status for Third Country Nationals, through the production of biometric cards.

These Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems are designed to process more than 5,200 requests per hour for a database of 16 million. These critically important elements of the overall system are paramount to the success of the project and sit at the heart of the system’s biometric technology. Serving the joint unit of the UK Home Office and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the central system and subsequent additional sub systems were provided by Sagem Sécurité to plan and within budget.

“This programme is a major step in the process of managing identity and developing biometrics in the UK,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky. “It confirms Sagem Sécurité’s ability to deliver on short notice a complex biometric system.”

As the worldwide leader in Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems and biometric technology integration, Sagem Sécurité has delivered more than 130 fully operational biometric and multi-biometric ID systems and solutions in 70 countries. These deliveries are compliant with the future European Union Visa Information System (EU VIS), for which Sagem Sécurité supplies the Biometric Matching System for Schengen zone countries

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. As a world leader of identification solutions, Sagem Sécurité is specialized in rights management and physical and logical access applications based on biometrics, as well as secure terminals and smart cards. Integrated systems and equipment by Sagem Sécurité are used worldwide to ensure transport safety, data and personal security, and high-level governmental security. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité operates worldwide.

In the United Kingdom, Sagem Sécurité is represented by Sagem Security UK Ltd.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.06.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité and L3 Communications develop new system for tactical information and real-time air-land targeting


Eurosatory Exhibition, Villepinte, June 17, 2008

Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) and L3 Communications (Communication Systems-West) have signed a deal to develop a new networked tactical information system for air-land targeting, designed RT-SAATS (Real Time – Situational Awareness Airborne Targeting System).

RT-SAATS complies with NATO interoperability standards, linking ground soldiers and aircraft in inter-allied and inter-service operations.

A forward observer will supply with RT-SAATS aircraft or the command with real-time images of the situation or targets, with precise coordinates. This new system contributes to short-notice operational decision making by providing forces with enhanced efficiency. It covers a wide range of missions: special operations, intelligence, evacuation of nationals, close air support, precision strikes, etc.

The system uses proven and available equipment, with a ground station for the advanced observer and an airborne station.

The ground station contains the following:

  • A JIM LR (Long Range) day/night multifunction imager connected to a tactical terminal, both developed by Sagem Défense Sécurité
  • A Rover/Mini Tactical Common Data Link, developed by L3 Communications, to transmit data, images and video from the JIM LR

The airborne station is developed jointly by both companies. It consists of a unit for receiving and viewing data, which enables the target coordinates to be entered in the aircraft’s navigation and attack system.

A dynamic demo of the new system will be held at the two companies’ stands at Eurosatory 2008.

The new system integrates feedback from recent military operations – especially in urban environments. It is designed to meet the growing tactical information needs of militaries, namely with respect to asymmetric threats. Its development draws on the two companies’ know-how in battlefield digitization programs.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US. For more information: www.sagem-ds.com

L3 Communications
L-3 Communication Systems-West (L-3 CS-West) located in Salt Lake City, Utah (USA), is the pre-eminent supplier of wideband data links and mobile surface and airborne satellite terminals for military applications in the world. They have over 40 years if experience in providing robust, mobile microwave, satellite terminals and wideband data links for airborne platforms, including manned and unmanned platforms, operating in a variety of environments.

Headquartered in New York City, L-3 Communications employs over 64,000 people worldwide and is a prime contractor in aircraft modernization and maintenance, C3ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) systems and government services. L-3 is also a leading provider of high technology products, subsystems and systems. The company reported 2007 sales of $14 billion.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

PRESS RELEASE

16.06.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Panhard and Sagem Défense Sécurité launch the WASP


Eurosatory exhibition, Villepinte, 16 June 2008

In order to improve the protection of the forces on operations, Panhard and Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) have together developed a new, remotely-controlled self-defence turret, the WASP, or Weapon under Armour for Self-Protection, equipped with a light machine gun coupled with an observation and infra-red sight..

The WASP is presented on the Panhard stand at Eurosatory 2008, integrated into a PVP armoured vehicle.

The WASP turret incorporates the lessons of high-intensity engagements in several overseas theatres, including asymmetric threats. It enables the crew to defend itself very effectively from the interior of the vehicle without being exposed to the threat. The ability to combine daylight and thermal images from the observation sight offers the capability for surveillance or reconnaissance missions by day or night in all weathers. The WASP also offers a remote firing function and a head-up display on a helmet. The turret functions via a SITEL* terminal (tactical coordination, reception and exploitation of images, aiming and firing), already deployed with the forces.

The WASP is light and compact, and presents a small visual signal. It is well-adapted to operations in built-up or mountainous areas, thanks to its large range of elevation (-40° /+90°).

Panhard’s experience in designing armoured combat systems, associated with the technological innovations of the FELIN** and SITEL programmes led by Sagem Défense Sécurité, as well as the use of off-the-shelf components, afford the WASP an excellent cost/effectiveness ratio.

*SITEL : Tactical Battle Management System
** FELIN : integrated equipment and communications for the dismounted soldier

***

Panhard General Defense. Panhard, a 100% owned subsidiary of Auverland since the beginning of 2005, has designed and built armoured vehicles for almost a century. Panhard produces the light armoured vehicle (VBL), more than 2,000 of which have been built, 1,600 of them for the French Army. In 2007, Panhard achieved a turnover of 78 million euros and has an order book of over 280 million euros. For more information : www.panhard.fr

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com | www.panhard.fr

PRESS RELEASE

16.06.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité unveils EUROFLIR: the new airborne optronics system


Eurosatory Exhibition, Villepinte, June 16, 2008

Sagem Défense Sécurité (Groupe SAFRAN) will be exhibiting for the first time on its stand at Eurosatory 2008 EUROFLIR™, its new high-performance airborne optronics unit.

EUROFLIR™ is a multifunction airborne surveillance system that makes use of the company’s best current know-how in sensors, gyrostabilization, platform integration, image processing, chain-of-command insertion, operational maintenance.

On its gyrostabilized platform, EUROFLIR™ can contain up to four sensors: latest generation infrared cameras, television optical channel, laser telemeter and eye safe laser designator, chosen according to operational needs. It provides enhanced performances in terms of identification and range, thanks to an infrared optic zoom with continuous enlargement.

Following international bidding, EUROFLIR™ was selected early 2008 for the overhaul of the French Army’s Light Aviation’s Eurocopter AS 532 Cougar helicopters.

EUROFLIR™ also meets the domestic security needs of nation-states: threat prevention and protection for civilians, territory and land and maritime entry points.

Sagem Défense Sécurité’s optronic equipment and systems cover all armed and security forces’ operational needs for all types of platforms (i.e. piloting, reconnaissance, surveillance, alerts and sighting) in the harshest environments.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

20.06.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité proposes a new PNU artillery pointing system in collaboration with Rockwell Collins


Eurosatory Exhibition, Villepinte, June 20, 2008

On the occasion of the Eurosatory 2008 exhibition, Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) is presenting its new artillery Position and Navigation Unit (PNU).

The system combines Sagem Défense Sécurité’s SIGMA 30 gyrolaser navigation and pointing system with a Rockwell Collins Explosion Resistant GPS Receiver / Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module.

The PNU is specially designed to operate the new GPS-guided weapons in artillery units’ extreme conditions: it ensures simultaneously high-precision navigation and pointing of firing platforms and initialization of the weapon’s GPS receiver.

Significantly reinforcing the effectiveness of artillery pieces (i.e. mortars, cannons and rocket launchers), the PNU is to be used as part of France, Germany and Italy’s programs to enhance their multiple MLRS rocket launchers.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

Rockwell Collins (NYSE: COL) is a pioneer in the development and deployment of innovative communication and aviation electronics solutions for both commercial and government applications. Our expertise in flight deck avionics, cabin electronics, mission communications, information management and simulation and training is delivered by 20 000 employees, and a global service and support network that crosses 27 countries.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.rockwellcollins.com | www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.06.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN to consolidate world leadership in identity solutions with the acquisition of passport-maker Sdu-Identification BV


Paris, June 24, 2008 – SAFRAN announced today the acquisition of the Dutch-based passport and secure ID document maker Sdu-Identification BV (“Sdu-I”), based in Haarlem, Netherlands.

With revenues of more than 90 million euros in 2007, Sdu-I is a leading European supplier of secure identification documents, including electronic and biometric passports, ID cards and driver licenses. It is one of the world’s leading specialists in high security polycarbonate data page technology.

Sagem Sécurité, a SAFRAN Group subsidiary, and already the world leader in biometric identification solutions, is counting on this acquisition to strengthen its position in the international market for ID solutions. With this acquisition, Sagem Sécurité offers proven expertise in the three key technologies needed for secure ID documents: biometric technologies, through its own systems and equipment; secure electronic transactions based on smart card technologies, and physical security through e-documents and secure printing technologies. This unrivaled combination of technologies and expertise will enable Sagem Sécurité to offer real complete, world-class ID solutions to governments anywhere in the world.

The ID document market is expected to log annual growth exceeding 15% over the next five years, driven not only by international regulatory measures such as the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and related European Union directives for biometric passports, but also growing demand from countries worldwide for high-security ID documents.

“Acquiring Sdu-I is a major step forward in the development of SAFRAN’S Security business and is perfectly in line with our group’s growth strategy,” said Jean-Paul Herteman, Chief Executive Officer of SAFRAN.

Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité, added, “It will enable us to enhance our range of complete and competitive ID solutions on offer to governments, and thus strengthen our leading position in this fast-growing market.”

“Sagem Sécurité is the ideal partner for Sdu-I,” said Anko Blokzijl, CEO of Sdu-I. “It is part of a very sound international group, which will enable us to export our products around the world, as well as offer comprehensive packages.”

The acquisition should be completed in due course, following fulfillment of customary closing conditions, including approval by regulatory authorities.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: aerospace propulsion, aircraft equipment, defense security and communications. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states.

Sdu-I is a leading developer and supplier of e-Passports and other sophisticated identity documents to a number of European governments. It is based in Haarlem, Netherlands and has 300 employees.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.sagem-securite.com | www.sdu-identification.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.06.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN revamps organization to keep pace with changing market


Paris, June 24, 2008

The aviation sector is undergoing deep changes spurred by customers’ growing demand for integrated services, the imperative goal of developing less fuel-hungry aircraft, and the increased role of system and subsystem suppliers, with aircraft manufacturers focusing on their core business of systems integration. Already apparent, these trends will take on critical importance in the next generation of aircraft, particularly in the coming decade with the replacement of current short/medium-haul jetliners carrying 100 to 200 passengers.

The SAFRAN Group plans to revamp its organization to meet three major objectives:

  • The trend towards “more electric” aircraft, and the growing role of electronics in systems and subsystems.
  • Integration of services in the original equipment offerings of engine manufacturers.
  • Increased cross-functional synergies between Group companies in strategic technologies.

Hispano-Suiza will be creating a new operating unit, SAFRAN Power, responsible for developing its power electronics business to carve out a position as world leader in all-electric technologies. Serge Bérenger will head SAFRAN Power, while Eric Portejoie is in charge of the engine control systems entity, to be transferred from Hispano-Suiza to Snecma.

SAFRAN will also group its 1,500 electronics specialists within a new entity, SAFRAN Electronics, part of Sagem Défense Sécurité, to strengthen unity and further spotlight its expertise in this area. SAFRAN Electronics will be headed by Jean-Michel Hillion.

Snecma Services is merging with Snecma to provide an optimized structure capable of offering integrated engine and service packages. Denis Vercherin, currently Chairman and CEO of Snecma Services, will return to Snecma corporate management as Executive Vice President. SAFRAN is also setting up a Business Development Division and a Materials and Processes Division, headed by Jean-Philippe Olier and Claude Quillien, respectively. All of these projects have been submitted to employee representative bodies for consultation.

Due to its continuous improvement efforts and capital expenditures, SAFRAN is more than ever fully equipped and ready to emerge as a winner in the major transformation now taking place in the aviation industry.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security and Communications. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

27.06.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Atos Origin and Sagem Sécurité Win Biometric Passport Contract


Paris - June 27 2008

An innovative technology solution serving the needs of citizens and helping to modernize governments

Atos Origin, an international information technology services company, and Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) have announced their selection by France’s National Secure Credentials Agency (ANTS), following an international tender, to manage implementation and deployment of the biometric passport system throughout France. The new passport, which is the result of a European Union directive, will reinforce passport reliability and personal security while helping to more effectively combat the fraudulent use of passports. This first secure document is in line with the French Government’s modernization strategy and its secure identity programs for citizens, of which ANTS is the enabler.

Nearly 5,000 data acquisition and processing systems will be deployed in 2,000 French town halls and 350 prefectures and sub-prefectures before June 2009, making it possible to include fingerprints on passports.

“We’re delighted to have been chosen to manage the deployment of this ambitious program,” said Philippe Germond, Chairman of Atos Origin. “Our understanding of the challenges involved in the Government’s modernization strategy, and our industrial capabilities in delivering innovative technology solutions on complex, large-scale projects were determining factors in the ANTS’s choice. The contract is a good example of how Atos Origin capitalizes on its comprehensive portfolio of skills and capabilities to support and improve our customers’ business performance.”

“We’re very pleased to have been chosen for this project, which provides us with national recognition of our global leadership in managing identity credentials solutions and also supports our strategic commitment to expanding in this market,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “In addition, it confirms our ability to develop a customized biometric identity solution within the very short timeframe required by ANTS and to respond to the government’s expressed wish to modernize its services.”

Sagem Sécurité, the world leader in biometric identity systems

Under the terms of the contract, Sagem Sécurité will provide identity data acquisition systems that comply with ICAO standards. The high level of securement delivered by Sagem Sécurité’s solution was a determining factor in awarding the contract. The system’s ergonomic features will also make it easier for people to access the service.

Sagem Sécurité is the only integrator with proficiency in all the skills needed for an end-to-end identity system, extending from smart cards and terminals to encryption and biometrics. To date, Sagem Sécurité has delivered more than 130 simple and multiple biometric identity systems and solutions in 70 countries.

Leveraging the full range of Atos Origin’s core competencies and innovations

Atos Origin’s extensive services portfolio combined with Sagem Sécurité’s expert skills make it possible to provide a single interface capable of covering all of the Agency’s needs—design, development, integration, rapid and broad-based deployment, training, change management and systems operation. Thanks to its ability to leverage all of its core competencies across the entire value chain, Atos Origin provides ANTS with an end-to-end solution that ensures flexible, efficient program management.

This flagship project includes in particular system deployment in town halls, consulates and prefectures, change management, training for more than 13,000 agents and the development and implementation of remote, paperless payment solutions.

To respond to specific program challenges, Atos Origin can rely on its more than 20 years experience in advising public sector clients throughout Europe and on its proven expertise in managing large-scale outsourcing projects that support major Government reform programs.

***

About Atos Origin
Atos Origin is an international information technology services company. Its business is turning client vision into results through the application of consulting, systems integration and managed operations. The company’s annual revenues are EUR 5.8 billion and it employs over 50,000 people in 40 countries. Atos Origin is the Worldwide Information Technology Partner for the Olympic Games and has a client base of international blue-chip companies across all sectors. Atos Origin is quoted on the Paris Eurolist Market and trades as Atos Origin, Atos Worldline and Atos Consulting.

About Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.atosorigin.com | www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

01.07.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Successful 2nd qualification firing and worldwide first for infrared terminal guidance AASM


Paris – July 1, 2008

On June 12, the French defense procurement agency, the DGA, successfully carried out the second qualification firing for the infrared terminal guidance version of the modular air-to-ground AASM weapon at the DGA’s missile test center in Biscarrosse.

This so-called ‘metric’ AASM version is equipped with the following:

  • An inertial/GPS guidance system identical to that of the qualified ‘decametric’ version
  • An infrared imager that automatically identifies the target several seconds before impact and corrects the trajectory

The AASM’s GPS was deactivated in order to demonstrate the weapon’s capability of striking its target with metric precision without using the GPS. This capability is indispensable when the target coordinates are imprecise or severe operational conditions render the GPS useless. After flying for roughly 25km using pure inertial navigation, the AASM executed a terminal readjustment using its infrared imager and struck its target with remarkable accuracy, thus achieving a worldwide first.

Following the first firing on April 23, 2008, at a distance of more than 50km, this new success constitutes a major step towards qualification of the AASM ‘metric’ version – the campaign for which will be completed this summer.

The ‘decametric’ AASM is in service in the French Air Force and has been successfully used several times by Rafale fighter planes in Afghanistan.

Developed by Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group), the AASM is composed of guidance and range enhancement kits. It provides bomb bodies that are currently in use with new operational capabilities. Following a recent agreement, MBDA France will commercialize the AASM as part of its comprehensive offer for international air forces.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

07.07.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN wins major Learjet 85 equipment contract from Bombardier Aerospace


Paris, July 7, 2008

SAFRAN Group subsidiaries Messier-Bugatti and Aircelle have been selected by Bombardier Aerospace to supply equipment for the new Learjet 85. The announcement confirms the expanding cooperation between the two groups. The two contracts were signed on July 4, in Montreal, at a ceremony attended by French Prime Minister François Fillon and Quebec Premier Jean Charest.

Messier-Bugatti will provide all landing and braking systems, comprising wheels and carbon brakes, the ground steering system, and the landing gear extension and retraction system. Aircelle will supply the nacelles and thrust reversers. Together, the two SAFRAN Group companies account for 11 percent of Learjet 85 supplier contracts.

Bombardier Aerospace President and Chief Operating Officer Guy C. Hachey said: “Bombardier is delighted to officially welcome the SAFRAN Group to the Learjet 85 program. The Learjet 85 represents a whole new generation of business aircraft that will redefine the twin-engine intermediate class of bizjets while further enhancing our longstanding tradition of product innovation.”

Émeric d’Arcimoles, SAFRAN Group Senior Executive Vice President for International Development added: “Building on this cooperation and in liaison with our two subsidiaries, our two groups are committed to deepening our partnership in areas where SAFRAN offers world-class competencies, namely aircraft equipment, avionics and aerospace propulsion.”

This latest business win showcases the SAFRAN Group’s unique ability to propose complete integrated aircraft solutions for its customers.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security and Communications. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2008, were $17.5 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.bombardier.com

PRESS RELEASE

07.07.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Mali selects Sagem Sécurité to deploy a national center for public records


Paris, July 7 th, 2008 – Sagem Sécurité, part of the SAFRAN Group, announced today that it has been chosen by the Malian Ministry of Territorial Administration and Local Communities, following an international call for tenders, to deploy a national center for public records. Sagem Sécurité will supply a secure solution for the management of public records, enabling the creation of certified identity documents.

One thousand portable data collection stations linked to an Automatic Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) will be deployed throughout Mali to record biometric data for more than 10 million citizens. Sagem Sécurité will provide the government with the proven technical resources and human resources needed to ensure the successful completion of this project, the long-term viability of the system and associated technology transfers.

“We are very honored to win this contract, which reflects Mali’s confidence in Sagem Sécurité, and to place our state-of-the-art technology at the service of Mali” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “The government of Mali can count on the total commitment and determination of Sagem Sécurité, and we consider this contract only the first step in a long and fruitful partnership.”

Sagem Sécurité is a pioneer in the design and development of fingerprint-based identification systems, and the only prime contractor with expertise in all areas needed for the production of a complete ID system: smart cards, terminals, encryption and biometrics. This latest contract once again reflects the outstanding engineering and reliability offered by Sagem Sécurité’s identity management solutions.

***

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. As a world leader of identification solutions, Sagem Sécurité is specialized in rights management and physical and logical access applications based on biometrics, as well as secure terminals and smart cards. Integrated systems and equipment by Sagem Sécurité are used worldwide to ensure transport safety, data and personal security, and high-level governmental security. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité operates worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

10.07.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Botswana police choose Sagem Sécurité’s new-generation AFIS


Paris, July 10th, 2008

Sagem Sécurité, part of the SAFRAN Group, announced today that it has been chosen by the Botswana Police Service (BPS), following an international call for tenders, to supply and deploy the latest version of its Metamorpho™ Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS). The system will be installed at 61 sites around the country.

An invaluable aid in crime-fighting, the Metamorpho™ system not only processes fingerprints for all ten fingers but also analyzes palm prints. This state-of-the-art system features very-high-quality image capture (1000 ppi, or pixels per inch), to guarantee the reliable, accurate and secure management of the country’s criminal data.

“Ten years ago Botswana chose our AFIS for its civilian ID cards, making it a pioneer in this field,” said Sagem Sécurité Chairman and CEO Jean-Paul Jainsky. “Today, they have once again chosen a Sagem Sécurité system, reflecting their trust in our innovative technologies to continue meeting their requirements. Our latest-generation AFIS will enable the country’s Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) to increase its crime-solving rate, while resolving cases very quickly, and will of course help them manage resources more efficiently.”

Philippe Compagnon, head of the subsidiary Sagem Sécurité South Africa, added: “We offer the additional advantage of a strong local presence. We cover the entire South African Development Community (SADC) zone, now encompassing 14 countries, which means we provide the local support that is critical to maintenance and sharing of expertise.”

The new contract from Botswana reflects Sagem Sécurité’s technological leadership in palm print recognition, and in biometric identification systems in general. It also confirms Sagem Sécurité’s leadership in this region of the world, and its commitment to establishing long-term relationships in Africa.

***

About Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

13.07.2008, SAFRAN
GE, SAFRAN Renew CFM Partnership until 2040


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 13, 2008

General Electric Company and Snecma (SAFRAN Group), parent companies of CFM International, have signed an agreement that extends the 50/50 partnership to the year 2040.

With this extension, the two parent companies are strongly positioning CFM for continued long-term success in developing the next-generation engine. With the new LEAP-X engine, CFM is introducing revolutionary technologies with the goal of achieving up to a 16 percent reduction in fuel burn compared to the current Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft families by 2016. In addition, the agreement also provides for integrated services offerings for these future engines.

"Our industry is in the midst of perhaps the most challenging times we have ever faced,” said Jean-Paul Herteman, CEO of SAFRAN Group. "In the early 1970s, the GE/Snecma partnership brought the benefits of high bypass turbofan technology to reduce fuel burn by 20 percent compared to the low-bypass engines they replaced, while introducing a new standard in reliability. We are now in a position to bring that same magnitude of improvement to the industry for the next 30 years.”

”The relationship between GE and SAFRAN today is the strongest it has ever been,” said David Joyce, president and CEO of GE Aviation. “Together, through the LEAP-X engine, we are bringing an advanced suite of revolutionary technologies to market that will take the next generation of single-aisle aircraft to a whole new level of fuel efficiency, while also reducing NOx emissions, carbon emissions, and noise. We understand the pressures the airlines are under. As we have in the past, we will deliver for the future.”

The two aircraft engine manufacturers signed the original framework agreement in 1974 and created CFM International as a 50/50 joint company. It was a decision that would redefine international cooperation and help change the course of commercial aviation. Today, CFM is the preferred supplier of commercial aircraft engines with a product line that serves as the industry benchmark efficiency, reliability, and low overall cost of ownership. More than 18,500 CFM56 engines for commercial and military applications have been delivered to date to nearly 500 operators around the globe.

The CFM56 fleet has achieved nearly 405 million flight hours in service powering more than 7,500 commercial and military aircraft worldwide as the most reliable engines in the air.

***

CFM, CFM56, and the CFM logo are trademarks of CFM International

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.snecma.fr | www.ge.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, Snecma Services
Snecma Services signs exclusive 13-year by-the-hour engine maintenance contract with Siberia Airlines


Farnborough, July 14, 2008 – Siberia Airlines (known under the trade mark S7 Airlines) announced today that it has signed a 13-year engine service per hour (ESPH) contract with Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group), covering its CFM56-5A engines. This new contract follows another contract signed two years ago between the Russian airline and Snecma Services.

Leader in the Russian domestic market, S7 Airlines is based in Novosibirsk and has its largest hub at Domodedovo International Airport in Moscow. To scope with its growth, S7 is harmonizing its fleet and acquired last year nine additional Airbus A319s. Snecma Services will handle the maintenance for these new engines, as well as for all other CFM56 engines operated by the airline.

This exclusive, long-term contract reflects S7 Airlines’ confidence in Snecma Services, and satisfaction with its services. According to director general Vladislav Filev, “The decisive factors in our decision to extend this collaboration were Snecma Services’ proven expertise and its ability to provide the required support to ensure the operational efficiency of our engines. Furthermore, this by-the-hour service contract allows us to meet our objectives in terms of engine dispatch reliability and shop visit scheduling, all at very competitive prices.”

For Snecma Services, this 13-year contract means the opportunity to obtain in-depth understanding of these engines over time, and this is an additional factor in enhancing the quality of service delivered to the customers. Through long-term contracts such as this one, Snecma Services provides ongoing support to airlines expanding their business.

“We are very honoured that S7 has decided to extend our partnership, in a contract that reflects their confidence in our services,” said Denis Vercherin, Chairman and CEO of Snecma Services. “This contract will help the airline maintain outstanding fleet quality, control its costs and retain the value of its assets. It also confirms our clear leadership in the Russian CFM56 MRO market.”

Since being founded in 1992, S7 Airlines has logged steady growth. Today, S7 is one of the 50 largest domestic airlines in the world, with more than 5.7 million passengers and 48,000 flights per year.

***

Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) provides a full range of aero-engine support services to operators worldwide (airlines, armed forces, lessors, VIP transport, etc.) including: engine MRO, parts repair, engineering support (fleet management, remote diagnostics), LRU support, engine maintenance on site (EMOS), technical assistance, tools, technical documentation, test cell calibration, engine leasing, flight test support, customer support, mechanics training and more. Snecma Services operates three sites in France (Montereau, Saint-Quentin and Châtellerault) and has a Belgian subsidiary, Snecma Services Brussels. The company has also created a number of joint ventures with major airlines and manufacturers.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma-services.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, Snecma Services
Snecma Services wins exclusive engine maintenance contract from Bahrain Air


Farnborough, July 14, 2008 – Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group), today announced an exclusive three-year engine maintenance contract with Bahrain Air, new private low-cost carrier based in Bahrain.

The Time & Material contract covers the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) of all CFM56-5A engines operated by Bahrain Air. The two companies also signed an ELOS (Engine Line Operation Support) contract, with CFM56 OEM shop Snecma Services providing services such as engineering and LRU (line replaceable unit) support.

“We are very pleased to kick off this collaboration with Snecma Services, and we are confident in their ability to meet our expectations,” said Moeen Al Bastaki, Vice President for Engineering of Bahrain Air. “With the airline planning to expand rapidly, we were looking for a partner that could contribute in preventive maintenance, through engineering support services. Not only is this contract highly competitive, it is also synonymous with operational reliability, flexible LRU management and the top-flight OEM quality delivered by Snecma Services’ teams.”

"We are very proud to have won this maintenance and ELOS contract, which clearly reflects Bahrain Air’s confidence in our services," said Roupen Karakachian, Vice President for Sales & Marketing at Snecma Services. "Through this contract the airline will enjoy a comprehensive package of optimized support services for lower overall maintenance costs."

Bahrain Air, founded in 2007, deploys a fleet of Airbus A320s to provide service to countries in the Gulf and the Middle East in general, as well as to India. A low-cost carrier, it is expecting a rapid growth in its business, including 20 new destinations in 2009.

***

Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) provides a full range of aero-engine support services to operators worldwide (airlines, armed forces, lessors, VIP transport, etc.) including: engine MRO, parts repair, engineering support (fleet management, remote diagnostics), LRU support, engine maintenance on site (EMOS), technical assistance, tools, technical documentation, test cell calibration, engine leasing, flight test support, customer support, mechanics training and more. Snecma Services operates three sites in France (Montereau, Saint-Quentin and Châtellerault) and has a Belgian subsidiary, Snecma Services Brussels. The company has also created a number of joint ventures with major airlines and manufacturers.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma-services.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, Snecma Services
Aigle Azur selects Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) for engine maintenance


Farnborough, July 14, 2008 – French airline Aigle Azur has chosen Snecma Services (part of the SAFRAN Group) to provide maintenance, repair and overhaul services for its engines. The four-year contract, covering MRO services for CFM56-5B engines, bolsters the current relationship between Aigle Azur and Snecma Services, an OEM shop that already provides engineering support for these engines.

For Aigle Azur, this new contract will combine better preventive maintenance, based on monitoring of engine performance, with top-flight OEM-quality maintenance and repair. With extended coverage for its engines, Aigle Azur enters a partnership that will deliver higher performance, extended on-wing life and lower costs.

“We only chose Snecma Services after a very demanding selection process,” says Jean-Claude Billot, Executive Vice President for Operations at Aigle Azur. “The decisive factors in our choice were their proven expertise in CFM56 maintenance, fleet monitoring support and a highly competitive proposal. This new contract will help us create an environment that fosters the continuous improvement of our engine maintenance.”

Denis Vercherin, Chairman and CEO of Snecma Services, added: “Won against strong competition, this contract proves our ability to offer contracts with prices that are more attractive than international competitors. Given the growing pressure from rising oil prices, Snecma Services seeks to develop innovative solutions to reduce costs for our airline customers.”

Aigle Azur, part of the Go Fast group and IATA recent active member, now flies to 30 destinations in Europe, Africa and North Africa, including Algeria, Mali, Morocco, Portugal and Tunisia. It also provides charter flights. Aigle Azur operates 11 Airbus A320 family aircraft and carries about 1.6 million passengers per year.

***

Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) provides a full range of aero-engine support services to operators worldwide (airlines, armed forces, lessors, VIP transport, etc.) including: engine MRO, parts repair, engineering support (fleet management, remote diagnostics), LRU support, engine maintenance on site (EMOS), technical assistance, tools, technical documentation, test cell calibration, engine leasing, flight test support, customer support, mechanics training and more. Snecma Services operates three sites in France (Montereau, Saint-Quentin and Châtellerault) and has a Belgian subsidiary, Snecma Services Brussels. The company has also created a number of joint ventures with major airlines and manufacturers.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma-services.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

15.07.2008, Snecma Services
Royal Air Maroc awards engineering support contract to Snecma Services


Farnborough, July 15, 2008

Royal Air Maroc, the national flag carrier of Morocco, based at the Casablanca international aircraft, announced today that it has signed an engineering support contract with Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group), a leading CFM56 OEM shop. This latest agreement further consolidates the partnership between the Royal Air Maroc and Snecma Services. The two companies are already partners in the jointly owned Snecma Morocco Engine Services (SMES), an MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) shop for CFM56-3 and -7B engines.

As a leader in CFM56 MRO, Snecma Services also offers customers an array of complementary services. The company’s ELOS (Engine Line Operation Support) brand encompasses all of these services, including engineering support, the continuous, remote monitoring of customers’ engines.

Based on these in-flight readings, processed by a system developed by CFM International, the experts from Snecma Services establish a real-time diagnostic of each engine. They are able to detect early indications of non-nominal performance parameters, and inform the customer by email or phone within a few minutes. At the same time, the Customer Support Center, operating 24x7, analyzes this data and recommends the best solutions.

“This contract reflects our commitment to strengthening our partnership with Snecma Services and applying OEM solutions,” said Mohamed Ballatig, Vice President for Engineering and Maintenance at Royal Air Maroc. “By assigning our engineering support to Snecma Services for five years, we can concentrate on our core business, decrease unplanned servicing and reduce our operating costs.”

According to Snecma Services Chairman and CEO Denis Vercherin, “We offer our customers two levels of remote monitoring for the CFM56: standard diagnostics, available free of charge to all CFM56 operators, and extended diagnostics, which includes the recording and analysis of additional data by our experts. Choosing this extended agreement, Royal Air Maroc will receive optimized recommendations for line maintenance and targeted workscopes during engine removals for servicing.”

Royal Air Maroc is the leading airline in Morocco, with a fleet of 44 aircraft carrying nearly six million passengers per year. With over 1,200 flights a week, it flies to 67 destinations in 35 countries. Royal Air Maroc’s hub in Casablanca, comprising three terminals that welcome more than 12 million passengers annually, is the largest airport hub in Western Africa. Through this hub, Royal Air Maroc provides connections between Africa and Europe, the Middle East and North America.

***

Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) provides a full range of aero-engine support services to operators worldwide (airlines, armed forces, lessors, VIP transport, etc.) including: engine MRO, parts repair, engineering support (fleet management, remote diagnostics), LRU support, engine maintenance on site (EMOS), technical assistance, tools, technical documentation, test cell calibration, engine leasing, flight test support, customer support, mechanics training and more. Snecma Services operates three sites in France (Montereau, Saint-Quentin and Châtellerault) and has a Belgian subsidiary, Snecma Services Brussels. The company has also created a number of joint ventures with major airlines and manufacturers.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma-services.com

PRESS RELEASE

15.07.2008, Snecma Services
Aeroflot Cargo chooses Snecma Services for engine maintenance


Farnborough, July 15, 2008 – Aeroflot Cargo, the air freight division of the Russian airline group Aeroflot, announced today that it has signed an exclusive engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) contract with Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group). The deciding factors in Aeroflot Cargo’s decision were Snecma Services’ broad presence in Russia, its competitive terms and an excellent reputation with local customers.

Aeroflot Cargo is the one of the leaders in the air cargo transport sector in Russia, carrying over 120,000 metric tons a year. Based at Sheremetyevo international airport in Moscow and in Frankfurt-Hahn airport in Europe, its network covers more than 100 destinations (two networks: for freighters and also belly cargo service on all Aeroflot passenger routes).

The three year contract awarded to Snecma Services covers all CFM56-3 engines powering the carrier’s Boeing 737 Freighter fleet. The MRO services will be provided by Snecma Services Brussels, a center of excellence in CFM56-3 engine support within the Snecma Services OEM network. The contract also includes a custom-tailored spare engine leasing service, to be provided by Shannon Engine Support, a CFM International subsidiary and preferred partner of Snecma Services.

“We are very satisfied with this contract,” said Valery Nikolaenko, vice president for engineering at Aeroflot Cargo. “Snecma Services was very flexible in meeting our price and service requirements and the Aeroflot group greatly appreciates their staff’s technical expertise and responsiveness. Another main factor was the guarantee of OEM support.”

Wilfried Theissen, managing director of Snecma Services Brussels, added: “We are very proud of having earned the confidence of the Aeroflot group. Our current contracts with Aeroflot, Aeroflot Don and Aeroflot Nord clearly show that we have built a long-term relationship with very solid foundations spanning price, quality and turn times.”

***

Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) provides a full range of aero-engine support services to operators worldwide (airlines, armed forces, lessors, VIP transport, etc.) including: engine MRO, parts repair, engineering support (fleet management, remote diagnostics), LRU support, engine maintenance on site (EMOS), technical assistance, tools, technical documentation, test cell calibration, engine leasing, flight test support, customer support, mechanics training and more. Snecma Services operates three sites in France (Montereau, Saint-Quentin and Châtellerault) and has a Belgian subsidiary, Snecma Services Brussels. The company has also created a number of joint ventures with major airlines and manufacturers.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma-services.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

15.07.2008, Aircelle
GE and SAFRAN to Create Joint Venture for Engine Nacelles on future Single-aisle Airliners


Farnborough, England, July 15, 2008 – GE-Aviation and SAFRAN today announced agreement on a new joint venture company to cooperatively develop, produce and support engine nacelles for the next-generation single-aisle commercial airliners.

The agreement covers complete nacelles and nacelle subsystems – providing highly competitive and innovative solutions based on the expertise and resources of Aircelle, a SAFRAN company, and GE’s Middle River Aircraft Systems subsidiary. It will consider new business opportunities with all engine and aircraft manufacturers involved in the single-aisle airliner category.

This cooperation builds on GE’s and SAFRAN’s more than 35 years of joint venture experience. The new company will have a joint management and operational structure, with 50 percent ownership held each by Middle River Aircraft Systems and Aircelle.

The agreement was unveiled today by SAFRAN and GE during a press conference at the 2008 Farnborough Airshow in England. Attending the press conference were David Joyce, President and Chief Executive Officer of GE Aviation , Jean-Paul Herteman, SAFRAN’s Chief Executive Officer; Dr. John Ferrie, President of GE‘s Aviation Systems; Yves Leclère, SAFRAN Executive Vice President, Equipment; Michael N. Chanatry, President of Product Solutions for GE’s Aviation Systems, GE-Aviation; Jean-Pierre Cojan, Aircelle President & CEO, and Sagar Patel, President and General Manager of Middle River Aircraft Systems.

Formal creation of the new company will be completed later this year, after the details of its corporate identity, headquarters location and other details are finalized. The joint venture is to utilize the existing design, development and manufacturing capacities of Aircelle and Middle River Aircraft Systems – which have highly complementary engine nacelle product lines and technical capabilities. This joint venture will draw on the strength of GE’s and SAFRAN’s deep knowledge and associated systems products in avionics, electrical power and actuation systems, all of which can be drawn on to support engine nacelles for next-generation aircraft.

“The new joint venture will offer customers highly competitive solutions that benefit from the expertise of two industry leaders in integrated engine nacelles – Middle River Aircraft Systems and Aircelle,” said David Joyce, President and Chief Executive Officer of GE Aviation. “This expands the successful three-decade GE/SAFRAN relationship into another key sector of aviation hardware.”

“Our new cooperative venture comes at a time when airlines are seeking more efficient, more environmentally-friendly solutions for their next generation of single-aisle airliners,” Jean-Paul Herteman, SAFRAN’s Chief Executive Officer, said. “The combined capabilities of Aircelle and Middle River Aircraft Systems will respond with engine nacelle products that improve aircraft performance, while also reducing weight and noise levels.”

Aircelle is a leading player in the worldwide nacelle market for aircraft engines. A member of the SAFRAN group, it employs approximately 3,500 persons at seven sites in France, the United Kingdom and Morocco. Aircelle is the only nacelle manufacturer in the world present on all market segments, from business and regional aircraft to the largest airliners, including the A380. Through its subsidiary SLCA, the company also is a major supplier in aerospace composites, with a growing presence in the design and manufacturing of complex composite aerostructures for aircraft, helicopters and other applications.

Middle River Aircraft Systems is one of the world’s leading suppliers of jet engine thrust reversers and nacelle systems. The company also produces a variety of specialized structures for major aircraft manufacturers, including Boeing and Lockheed Martin, for commercial and military aircraft. Middle River employs a workforce of 1,000 employees at its Baltimore, Maryland site. In addition to design and manufacturing, Middle River Aircraft Systems provides technical support and spares services for a variety of aero-structures.

Together, Middle River Aircraft Systems and Aircelle have extensive capabilities in all aspects of nacelles, from engine inlet to exhaust nozzle – including thrust reversers, fan cowls, acoustic treatment, thermal protection and anti-icing, engine pylons and mounts.

“The next generation of engine nacelles will require new technologies and significant financial resources for their development,” Jean-Pierre Cojan, Aircelle’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said. “The new joint venture of Aircelle and Middle River Aircraft Systems will bring together both of these elements, and will have a global footprint that allows customer proximity worldwide.”

“This partnership will allow us to design, integrate and produce a better nacelle system at reduced development and production cost and should ultimately benefit airlines and airframers,” said Sagar Patel, the President & General Manager of Middle River Aircraft Systems. “Both Aircelle and Middle River Aircraft Systems will benefit, since our partnership will enable us to participate in more programs."

***

About GE-Aviation
GE-Aviation, an operating unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of jet engines and components as well as integrated systems and product solutions for commercial and military aircraft. GE has a global service network to support these offerings.

About SAFRAN
SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with four core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, Defense Security and Communications. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.aircelle.com | www.mras-usa.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.07.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN and the Auteuil Foundation: « The Ocean, a complete project! »


This summer the SAFRAN Group is continuing its patronage activities with the Auteuil Foundation, by offering fifteen teenagers a sailing course from July 20 to 26 at La Trinité sur Mer.
This original initiative that has been called « The Ocean, a complete project! », is destined to provide young sailors with the experience of team-work, a competitive nature and also a sporting outlook, advantages to be used not only in the sailing world but also in daily life…

For more than 140 years, the Auteuil Foundation has been committed to help young people encountering major difficulties in their family, personal and social environments to acquire know-how and the manner in which they comport themselves. A specific pathway is established for each youngster according to their personal situations. The objective of the Auteuil Foundation is to assist young girls and boys in great difficulty, whilst accepting their different origins and culture, in their education, schooling and professional training, thus preparing them for life ahead.

Personal development is one of the principal values that the SAFRAN Group and its patronage programmes aim for. To provide the under-privileged with access to technology, science, culture and leisure activities represents one of the major thrusts of the Group’s corporate commitment.

The Auteuil Foundation has adopted the same approach. After having received more than 75 Foundation students at its Aeronautical and Space Museum last year, SAFRAN has decided to a prolong its partnership with the Auteuil Foundation, by offering 15 girls and boys aged 12 to 15 the possibility to participate in a one-week sailing course at the leading site of La Trinité sur Mer. The programme of that sports and culture oriented week includes: sailing lessons every morning, tree swings, cycling, visiting the Morbihan gulf, discovery of local heritage, etc.

The high point of the week, however, will be meeting the skipper of the SAFRAN single hull, Marc Guillemot, on Thursday July 24. The youngsters will be able to visit that exceptional yacht before its departure next November 9 for the famous non-stop around the world alone race called the Vendée Globe. The budding sailors will be able to ask the skipper all the practical and technical questions they may have and thus learn about the strength and beauty of sailing from a true champion, and also the hardship of life at sea.

Richer for having met Marc Guillemot and acquired new experience from a master in the art of navigation, our 15 youngsters will then be motivated to follow his progress around the Globe with great attention.

***

Watch the video on www.safransixty.com

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.fondation-auteuil.org

PRESS RELEASE

15.07.2008, Labinal
Labinal selected by Embraer for the Phenom 100 program


Paris, France July 15th, 2008

Labinal, a company of the SAFRAN Group has been awarded a contract to manufacture the electrical harnesses for the Embraer Phenom 100 Program.

‘This is a significant milestone for Labinal. Embraer is a very important customer for us and a key element of Labinal’s strategy looking forward. We are excited about the opportunity to initiate this partnership” said Norman Jordan, Labinal Chairman and CEO.

First deliveries of wire harnesses to Embraer assembly facilities in Brazil began in June 2008.

***

About the Phenom Jets
Premium comfort, outstanding performance and low operating costs are key design drivers for the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300 best-in-class jets. With the interior designed by BMW Group DesignworksUSA, both aircraft will offer pilots and passengers the comfort and style previously unknown in their categories. The relaxing ambience is enhanced by generous windows and the most ample cabin in their class. Onboard conveniences include a wardrobe or refreshment center, an aft cabin private lavatory with toiletry cabinet, and satellite communications.

About Labinal
One of the SAFRAN Group’s high-tech companies, Labinal is a world leader in the field of electrical wiring systems design, engineering, manufacturing and installation, including associated technology for the aviation, space and defense markets. Labinal’s capabilities have grown out of decades of aerospace wiring design and production experience, and unmatched expertise founded in our partnerships with the world’s leading aerospace and defense companies. Labinal’s industrial activities are organized in four divisions to better serve our markets and customers with locations throughout the world.

About Embraer
Embraer (Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica S.A. - NYSE: ERJ; Bovespa: EMBR3) is the world’s largest manufacturer of commercial jets up to 120 seats, and one of Brazil’s leading exporters. Embraer’s headquarters are located in São José dos Campos, São Paulo, and it has offices, industrial operations and customer service facilities in Brazil, the United States, France, Portugal, China and Singapore. Founded in 1969, the Company designs, develops, manufactures and sells aircraft for the Commercial Aviation, Executive Aviation, and Defense and Government segments. The Company also provides after sales support and services to customers worldwide. On December 31, 2007, Embraer had a workforce of 23,734 employees and a firm order backlog of US$ 18.8 billion.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.labinal.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.07.2008, Snecma Services
Nouvelair chooses Snecma Services for CFM56 engine maintenance


Farnborough, July 16, 2008

Nouvelair, a privately owned Tunisian airline, has signed a contract extension with Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) for maintenance of its CFM56-5A engines, further bolstering their partnership.

This contract extension follows the exclusive service contract signed in 2006, covering the DAC (double annular combustor) version of the airline’s CFM56-5B engines, for which the OEM shop already provides maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services. Through this new 5-year exclusive contract, Snecma Services expands its relationship of mutual trust with the Tunisian airline.

“Snecma Services offers proven maintenance expertise, and their OEM label is an additional quality guarantee,” said Chokri Zarrad, chief executive officer of Nouvelair. “Furthermore, they have helped us reduce our costs by providing on-wing servicing. Their excellent customer relations and proven know-how in preventive maintenance, to delay engine removals, play a major role in enhancing the management of our operations.”

According to Denis Vercherin, chairman and CEO of Snecma Services, “The Nouvelair contract is further proof that Snecma Services delivers a comprehensive offering, spanning shop maintenance and associated services. We aim to provide top-flight MRO, as well as day-to-day customer support for fleet management.”

Founded in 1989, Nouvelair offers charter flights to more than 120 airports in 33 countries in Europe and North Africa. The company has grown steadily since the outset, and now carries more than 1.5 million passengers a year.

***

Snecma Services (SAFRAN Group) provides a full range of aero-engine support services to operators worldwide (airlines, armed forces, lessors, VIP transport, etc.) including: engine MRO, parts repair, engineering support (fleet management, remote diagnostics), LRU support, engine maintenance on site (EMOS), technical assistance, tools, technical documentation, test cell calibration, engine leasing, flight test support, customer support, mechanics training and more. Snecma Services operates three sites in France (Montereau, Saint-Quentin and Châtellerault) and has a Belgian subsidiary, Snecma Services Brussels. The company has also created a number of joint ventures with major airlines and manufacturers.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma-services.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.07.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Infrared terminal guidance version of AASM successfully completes final qualification firing test


Farnborough, 16 July 2008

On July 9, 2008, French defense procurement agency DGA (Délégation Générale pour l’Armement) successfully complete the third and last qualification firing test of the infrared terminal guidance version of the AASM modular air-to-ground weapon at its missile test range in Biscarosse,

This “one-meter class” AASM version features:

  • An inertial/GPS guidance system identical to that of the qualified “ten-meter class” version, already in operational service.
  • An infrared imager that automatically identifies the target several seconds before impact and corrects the trajectory.

This successful test firing is the culmination of qualification tests for the “metric” version of the AASM.

The final firing test was carried out at very low altitude from a range of 16 km. The aim was to hit a target whose coordinates transmitted to the AASM prior to release had been shifted by 80 meters. In other words, this firing test was designed to prove that the infrared terminal guidance AASM could locate and strike its target to within 1 meter, in an area with few landmarks that would allow correcting the target trajectory.

The “ten-meter class” AASM is in service in the French air force and has been successfully used several times by Rafale fighter planes in Afghanistan.

Developed by Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group), the AASM is composed of guidance and range enhancement kits that give bombs already in service new operational capabilities. Following a recent agreement, MBDA France markets the AASM as part of its comprehensive offering for air forces in international markets.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in inertial navigation systems for airborne, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.07.2008, CFM International
KLM Latest Airline to Achieve TRUEngine™ Status


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 16, 2008

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is the most recent customer to achieve the TRUEngine designation for more than 115 CFM56-3 and CFM56-7B engines in its fleet.

TRUEngine™ is a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company of Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

"KLM Engineering & Maintenance is proud to be one of the first airlines to become a part of this program," said Peter de Swert, senior vice president operations of Engineering and Maintenance for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.. "We put high value on the quality of our equipment and we find the TRUEngine™ concept interesting. To have a tool available to the industry that shows the engines, by serial number, that are maintained to the exacting standards recommended by the original manufacturer is a great resource for all of us."

The TRUEngine™ designation will be available to all CFM56 engines meeting the criteria and several fleets of engines are currently being evaluated.

To qualify for TRUEngine™ status, the engine configuration, engine overhaul practices, spare parts and repairs used to service the engine must be consistent with CFM requirements for that engine model. In addition, all maintenance must comply with CFM-issued engine manuals and other maintenance recommendations. The qualification data is obtained through a combination of fleet operational and maintenance records.

Commercial jet engines typically are in service for more than 25 years and change ownership at least once in their operational life. The engine’s configuration, material content, maintenance history, and supportability impact overall value as it changes ownership.

The TRUEngine™ designation also facilitates CFM’s ability to provide technical support. Jet engines contain multiple, complex systems whose interactions must be carefully controlled. CFM’s engine support is built upon technical expertise for genuine CFM56 parts and configurations, as well as data gained from the vast operational history of the global CFM56 engine population.

CFM designs and continually improves the CFM56 family, the world’s most utilized commercial jet engine. Nearly 16,000 CFM56 engines are in commercial service powering several aircraft models, most prominently the Boeing 737 and Airbus 320 families, with nearly 500 operators worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.07.2008, CFM International
AirBlue Places $185 Million CFM56-5B Engine Order; Signs Comprehensive Integrated Services Package


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 16, 2008

Pakistan’s AirBlue has placed a $185 million order for CFM56-5B engines to power 14 Airbus A320 aircraft scheduled for delivery from 2009. In addition, airline has signed an integrated services package that will cover the maintenance, overhaul, and repair of this fleet.

CFM56-5B engines are produced by CFM International, the 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

The details of the service agreement are not being disclosed at this time.

"AirBlue came to CFM and asked us to provide an integrated proposal: engines and services," said Eric Bachelet. "The airline wanted to focus on its core efficiency of moving passenger; we were happy to work with them to achieve this goal. We look forward to growing this new relationship together."

AirBlue was launched in 2004 and in 2007 carried one million passengers on domestic flights, or about 35 percent of the nation’s passenger volume. It launched a daily flight from Karachi to Dubai in 2005 and now operates 21 weekly flights from Dubai to four Pakistani cities. The airline plans to add 14 more flights from Pakistan to Dubai. AirBlue also operates a daily flight between Islamabad and Manchester, England, using Airbus A321 aircraft.

All of AirBlue’s new CFM56-5B engines will be in the Tech Insertion configuration. This technology will provide operators with a 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption over the life of the product, compared to the base CFM56-5B engine. This lower fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by 200 tons per aircraft per year. Improved analytic design tools have also enabled CFM to further optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions.

Over the engine’s life cycle, Tech Insertion will also provide operators with longer time on wing and will lower maintenance costs by between five and 12 percent, depending on the thrust rating. These benefits are achieved through improvements to the high-pressure compressor and the high- and low-pressure turbines.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.07.2008, CFM International
CFM56-7B Powerplant for P-8A Poseidon on Schedule for September Certification


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 16, 2008

CFM International’s advanced CFM56-7B powerplant for the U.S. Navy’s P-8A Poseidon has successfully completed extensive ground tests and is on schedule for engine certification in late September 2008.

CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM is part of the Boeing-led P-8A team that also includes Spirit AeroSystems, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, NAVAIR and GE Aviation.

The Navy plans to purchase 108 P-8As to replace its fleet of P-3C aircraft. Initial operational capability is scheduled for 2013. The first engines, delivered to Boeing in early May, were installed on the first airplane in June. Boeing completed initial engine runs in early July,.

In February of this year, a CFM56-7B engine successfully completed extensive icing tests at a special facility near Montreal (Quebec), Canada. The engine ran for more than 30 hours in icing conditions and completed 19 different test points. The test program was designed to evaluate the CFM56-7B engine’s ability to meet the stringent icing requirements established by the Navy for this aircraft, including subjecting the engine to extreme conditions over an extended time period.

In April, another CFM56-7B engine was subjected to the other temperature extreme. In a dedicated test cell at Snecma facilities in Villaroche, France, the engine successfully completed a series of thermal tests that included an entire engine build-up (full EBU and aircraft nacelle hardware). Tests were conducted with various fuel temperatures and engine power extraction loads to evaluate the thermal characteristics of the engine’s fuel and oil systems. One series of tests actually included a complete simulation of a specific P-8A mission. The P-8A Poseidon is a derivative of the Next-Generation 737-800, also powered by the CFM56-7, with increased gross weight capability. The aircraft will provide increased capability in long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

A version of the CFM56-7 engine that will power the P-8A, also powers the Boeing 737 AEW&C and C-40 aircraft. Each engine is rated at 27,300 pounds (121 kN) takeoff thrust and will meet the Poseidon’s demanding electrical output requirements to support flight deck and mission system operations.

The CFM56-7 is one of the world’s most reliable engines. More than 5,500 engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet has logged more than 80 million flight hours while maintaining an industry-leading 0.002 in-flight shutdown rate per 1,000 flight hours. This rate translates to one event every 500,000 flight hours.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.07.2008, CFM International
Aviation Capital Group Places $325 Million Order for CFM56-5B Engines


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 17, 2008

Aviation Capital Group (ACG) today announced that is has selected CFM International’s CFM56-5B engine to power 25 firm Airbus A320 family aircraft. The order is valued at approximately $325 million (U.S.) at list price and the aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2010 and 2012.

CFM56-5B engines are produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

ACG is a global jet aircraft leasing and asset management company. Founded in 1989, the company is actively engaged in aircraft acquisition and leasing to international airlines and provides advisory services for aircraft investors and institutional clients worldwide. In addition to the 25 new A320s, ACG also has outstanding orders for 60 CFM56-7B-powered Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 aircraft.

"The broad industry acceptance of the CFM56 product line makes it an obvious asset to our portfolio," said R. Stephen Hannahs, ACG Group managing director and CEO. "We think this engine/airplane combination fits perfectly with our strategy to meet client needs for modern, cost-effective and fuel-efficient aircraft."

ACG owns and manages a portfolio of more than 200 single- and twin-aisle commercial jets. This portfolio includes the Airbus A320 family, Airbus A330, Boeing 737 Classics and Next Generations, Boeing 757, 767 and freighters. The company has more than 100 737NGs, A319s, A320s and A321s on order. Headquartered in Newport Beach, California, ACG is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pacific LifeCorp, the parent company of Pacific Life Insurance Company

All of ACG’s new CFM56-5B engines will be in the Tech Insertion configuration. This technology will provide operators with a 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption over the life of the product, compared to the base CFM56-5B engine. This lower fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by 200 tons per aircraft per year. Improved analytic design tools have also enabled CFM to further optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions.

Over the engine’s life cycle, Tech Insertion will also provide operators with longer time on wing and will lower maintenance costs by between five and 12 percent, depending on the thrust rating. These benefits are achieved through improvements to the high-pressure compressor and the high- and low-pressure turbines.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.07.2008, CFM International
Southwest CFM56 Engines Granted TRUEngine™ Status


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 16, 2008

Southwest Airlines has become one of the first CFM International customers to achieve the TRUEngine™ designation for more than 1,100 CFM56-3 and CFM56-7B engines in its fleet.

TRUEngine™ is a designation of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company of Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

"Our long-standing relationship with CFM has consistently provided us with exceptional quality, reliability, and value," said Mike Van de Ven, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Southwest Airlines. "Achieving TRUEngine™ status is one more way in which Southwest Airlines can differentiate our fleet from our competitors."

The TRUEngine™ designation will be available to all CFM56 engines meeting the criteria and several fleets of engines are currently being evaluated.

To qualify for TRUEngine™ status, the engine configuration, engine overhaul practices, spare parts and repairs used to service the engine must be consistent with CFM requirements for that engine model. In addition, all maintenance must comply with CFM-issued engine manuals and other maintenance recommendations. The qualification data is obtained through a combination of fleet operational and maintenance records.

Commercial jet engines typically are in service for more than 25 years and change ownership at least once in their operational life. The engine’s configuration, material content, maintenance history, and supportability impact overall value as it changes ownership.

The TRUEngine™ designation also facilitates CFM’s ability to provide technical support. Jet engines contain multiple, complex systems whose interactions must be carefully controlled. CFM’s engine support is built upon technical expertise for genuine CFM56 parts and configurations, as well as data gained from the vast operational history of the global CFM56 engine population.

CFM designs and continually improves the CFM56 family, the world’s most utilized commercial jet engine. Nearly 16,000 CFM56 engines are in commercial service powering several aircraft models, most prominently the Boeing 737 and Airbus 320 families, with nearly 500 operators worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.07.2008, CFM International
British Airways Selects CFM56-5B to Power New Airbus A318 Aircraft


FARNBOROUGH, England – July 16, 2008

British Airways has selected CFM International’s CFM56-5B engine to power two Airbus A318 aircraft in an engine order valued at more than $25 million U.S. at list price. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2009.

CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

British Airways is a long-time CFM customer and currently operates a fleet of more than 80 CFM56 engines (including spares), powering Classic Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 family aircraft. The airline will use the new A318s on is all business-class route between London City and New York’s John F. Kennedy airport.

"The CFM56-5B-powered A318 will bring great operating economics to this route," said Willie Walsh, chief executive officer of British Airways. "The Tech Insertion package brings a wealth of benefits—lower fuel burn, lower emissions, lower maintenance costs—all coupled with the outstanding reliability of the CFM56 product line".

The CFM56-5B9/3 engines powering British Airways new A318 aircraft will be the Tech Insertion configuration, which incorporates advanced technologies to provide operators with improved fuel burn and lower maintenance costs. Improved analytic design tools enabled CFM to optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions, providing even grater margin to the new International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Committee of Aviation Environmental Protection emissions standards (CAEP /6 regulations) which took effect in early 2008.

The CFM56-5B is the engine of choice overall for the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 and is popular with major airlines, low-cost carriers, and leasing companies alike. More than 3,200 CFM56-5B engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet is growing at a rate of about 40 engines per month. Primary factors behind the engine’s broad-based acceptance include this industry’s best reliability, durability, lower environmental impact, low cost of ownership, and world-class customer and product support. The CFM56-5B is the only engine that can power every model of the A320 family, from the small A318 up to the A321, with the same bill of materials.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

15.07.2008, CFM International
AWAS Selects CFM56-5B Engines to Power Airbus A320 Family Aircraft


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 15, 2008

Dublin-based AWAS became a new CFM International CFM56-5B customer today when it announced it has selected the engine to power 45 firm and up to 55 option A320 family aircraft announced by Airbus earlier this year. The firm engine order is valued at more than $600 million U.S. at list price and deliveries are scheduled between 2011 and 2015.

CFM56-5B engines are a product of CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

"We chose the CFM56-5B engine after an exhaustive technical evaluation, which showed it has outstanding reliability and overall cost of ownership," said Frank Pray, CEO of AWAS. "This engine represents great value and enjoys broad market acceptance. We believe they will be an invaluable asset to our customers and, thus, to our portfolio."

"We are excited to welcome AWAS to the CFM family of customers," said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM International. "They have established themselves as one of the world’s leading leasing companies and we are honored by their faith in our products."

In late 2007, AWAS, one of the largest aircraft leasing companies in the world, ordered a total of 31 firm, 19 option CFM56-7B-powered Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. The company serves customers in The Americas, Europe, Middle East, and Asia/Pacific and owns a portfolio of more than 220 modern aircraft with an additional 128 aircraft on order from Airbus and Boeing. The aircraft portfolio is on lease to over 100 airline customers in 45 countries.

All of AWAS’ new CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines will be in the Tech Insertion configuration. This technology will provide operators with a 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption over the life of the product, compared to the base engines. This lower fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by 200 tons per aircraft per year. Improved analytic design tools have also enabled CFM to further optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions. Over the engine’s life cycle, Tech Insertion will also provide AWAS customers with longer time on wing and will lower maintenance costs by between five and 12 percent, depending on the thrust rating.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, CFM International
FlyDubai Places $700 Million Order for CFM56-7B Engines


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 14, 2008

The Dubai government’s new low-cost carrier, FlyDubai, has ordered 50 CFM56-7B-powered Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 and 737-900 aircraft. The engine order is valued at nearly $700 million U.S. at list price. The airline will begin taking delivery in 2009 and is scheduled to have all 50 aircraft operating by 2016.

The CFM56-7B is a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

FlyDubai has its first flight planned for mid-2009. The new start-up airline will initially focus on flights within the Gulf region.

"Reliability and low operating costs are very important for us as a low cost carrier and this is what this engine offers." Said Ghaith Al Ghaith, chief executive, FlyDubai. "When you combine these factors with the benefits to the environment of the CFM56-7B engine, it was a natural choice for FlyDubai."

"We are delighted to provide the very reliable CFM56-7B engines to FlyDubai for its 50 737 aircraft," said Muhammad Al-Lamadani, CFM’ s senior executive – Regional Sales for the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Commonwealth of Independent States (former Soviet Union). "The high reliability and low operating costs of the CFM56-7B-powered 737s will be critical to help this new airline get off the ground. In addition, we will bring the full force of our world-class customer and product support organization to bear to help ensure the airline has a very smooth startup."

The CFM56-7B engines powering FlyDubai’s new 737 aircraft are the Tech Insertion configuration, which incorporates advanced technologies that provide operators with lower fuel consumption, lower emissions, and lower maintenance costs. Improved analytic design tools have enabled CFM to optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions, allowing the engine to meet the new International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Committee of Aviation Environmental Protection emissions standards (CAEP /6) scheduled to take effect in 2008. In addition, the engine’s 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by 200 tons per aircraft per year.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, CFM International
CFM Certifies Tech Insertion Compressor Upgrade; Brings Lower Fuel Burn, Longer On-Wing Life to Mature Fleet


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 14, 2008

CFM International has completed certification of the advanced CFM56 Tech Insertion compressor upgrade kit, technology that will provide operators of mature CFM56-7B and CFM56-5B engines with up to 1 percent lower fuel consumption along with lower maintenance costs.

CFM56 Tech Insertion is a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company of Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM is the world’s leading manufacturing of commercial aircraft engines and has produced more than 18,500 engines to date.

In addition to the compressor kit, CFM also offers a full Tech Insertion core upgrade, as well as high- and low-pressure turbine hardware, for the more than 7,250 CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines that were delivered prior to the production shift in 2007. The new hardware is installed during a regular shop visit. High-pressure turbine hardware has been available since July 2007 and incorporation has grown steadily. In 2008, approximately 80 percent of the spare parts orders for CFM56-5B & -7B engines have been for the Tech Insertion hardware.

CFM completed an exhaustive series of tests on eight different development engines as part of the Tech Insertion engine and upgrade certification program. These engines underwent icing tests, compressor and turbine blade stress tests, hail ingestion, emissions, over-temperature tests, a 150-hour block test, and a 65-hour flight test program on GE’s modified 747 flying testbed. Eleven additional engines completed a combined total of 1,230 hours of flight tests on Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft. Overall, Tech Insertion engines logged at total of more than 3,650 hours and 17,300 cycles of development, endurance, and full engine and upgrade certification testing. .

The new production configuration had a highly successful entry into service in 2007 on both the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families. To date, more than 1,350 Tech Insertions engines have been delivered and the fleet has logged more than 1.6 million flight hours and 900,000 flight cycles without a single engine-related incident.

Over the engine’s life cycle, CFM56 Tech Insertion will provide operators up to 1 percent better specific fuel consumption, which translates to better fuel burn and with longer time on wing through an equivalent 15 - 20° C additional exhaust gas temperature margin; between 5 and 15% percent lower maintenance costs (depending on the thrust rating) through enhanced durability. The engine also meets the new International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Committee of Aviation Environmental Protection standards (CAEP /6) that took effect in early 2008. These benefits are achieved through improvements to the high-pressure compressor, the combustor, and the high- and low-pressure turbines. The emissions benefit can only be realized by incorporating the full Tech Insertion core upgrade (compressor, combustor, turbine).

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, CFM International
CFM Remains at the Forefront of Biofuels Testing


FARNBOROUGH, England - July 14, 2008

CFM International continues to be at the forefront of biofuels testing and is committed to supporting the development of sustainable biofuel sources that will have minimal or no impact on food crops or water resources, or contribute to deforestation.

CFM56 engines are produced by CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company of Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

In the past year alone, CFM has successfully carried out two ground test programs of CFM56 engines using biofuels, as well as facilitating an aircraft flight using renewable fuels. In 2009, the company will support a second flight test program with Continental Airlines, when one of the airline’s Boeing 737 aircraft powered by CFM56-7B engines will perform a biofuels demonstration flight test.

The airline, along with CFM parent company GE, is working to identify sustainable fuel sources that can be produced in sufficient quantities to support extensive engine ground tests prior to the flight test while meeting the criteria for no impact on food or water resources.

In 2007, CFM completed an initial test of a CFM56-7B engine using an ester-type biofuel at Snecma’s Villaroche facility near Paris. The biofuel used was 30 percent vegetable oil methyl ester blended with 70 percent conventional Jet-A1 fuel.

This test was designed to validate the operation of a jet engine using a fuel made from biomass, without making any technical changes to the engine. The target for biofuels is a net reduction of 20 percent in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions compared with current fuels.

CFM completed several hours of ground testing at GE’s outdoor Peebles, Ohio, facility in late 2007 on two alternate fuels: a Fischer-Tropsch synthetic fuel and an Imperium Renewables biofuel composed of babassu oil and coconut oil. In February of this year, that same Imperium fuel was then used by Virgin Atlantic to fuel one of the CF6 engines powering its own Boeing 747 aircraft on a flight from London to Amsterdam. This historic flight was the first ever flown on renewable fuel.

CFM continues to run engine tests to develop solutions based on mixtures of jet fuel and second-generation biofuels. For instance, it is currently focusing on the evaluation of alternative fuels made using biomass.

Along with its parent companies, CFM is participating in a number of emissions-focused initiatives, including the U.S. CAP (Climate Action Partnership). The company is also involved in several alternative fuels research programs, including French CALIN and European Alpha-Bird programs, dedicated to researching third-generation molecules for biofuels; and the European DREAM program, tasked with demonstrating the ability to operate aircraft with existing alternative fuels.

For alternative fuels to be used in the aviation industry, there are a number of major technology challenges that must be met, including energy density, thermal stability (avoiding coking at high temperature), use at very low temperatures (freezing) lubricating effect with materials used, and the availability of mass production facilities worldwide.

CFM has long been a leader in developing technologies to reduce fuel consumption, greenhouse gases, polluting emissions and noise and pioneered new technologies to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), hydrocarbons and visible smoke.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, CFM International
CFM Technology Investments Bring Substantial Benefits, Lower Fuel Burn, Lower Emissions, Longer Time on Wing, Increased Productivity


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 14, 2008

In the past 12 years, CFM International has invested more than $2 billion to develop and certify new engine configurations and product upgrades that are providing lower fuel consumption, lower NOx and carbon emissions, and longer time on wing to benefit both new customers and operators of more mature fleets.

CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

From its initial launch, CFM has continually improved the CFM56 product line. For example, the evolution from the CFM56-3 engine powering the Boeing 737 Classic to the CFM56-7B engine for the Boeing Next-Generation 737 introduced in 1997 provided substantial productivity benefits for airlines. CFM was able to reduce specific fuel consumption by 7 percent, while increasing engine thrust by more than 16 percent and adding an additional 500 nautical miles in range. That means more passengers/payload could be carried on longer routes. Plus, the CFM56-7B provides one bill of materials over five different aircraft models.

Likewise, the CFM56-5B provided nearly 25 percent more thrust compared to the CFM56-5A and reduced fuel consumption by about 3 percent (depending on the application) while enabled CFM to also power the entire A320 aircraft family with one bill of materials.

With current oil prices lingering at more than $130 per barrel­¾up nearly 60 percent from a year ago¾­jet fuel has now emerged as the single largest contributor to airline operating costs. CFM’s sizeable investment has provided technology that is helping to lessen that burden.

Since 1996 alone, the company has introduced three new engine models (CFM56-5C/P, CFM56-5B Tech Insertion and CFM56-7B Tech Insertion). On average, these engines have provided a 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption, as well as improving aircraft NOx and carbon emissions, while improving time on wing. Approximately 1,350 Tech Insertion production engines have been delivered since April 2007.

At the same time, CFM has introduced three technology upgrade programs (CFM56-3 Advanced Upgrade; CFM56-5C/P; CFM56-5B/-7B Tech Insertion). Again, these programs have provided an average of a 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption.

To date, nearly 1,000 engines have incorporated the CFM56-3 Advanced Upgraded. For 20-aircraft fleet, this package can save operators more than 700,000 gallons of fuel and nearly 7,000 metric tons of carbon emissions annually.

Since July 2007, nearly 200 engines have incorporated Tech Insertion high-pressure turbine hardware during a shop visit. CFM is in the process of certifying a Tech Insertion compressor upgrade kit, which could provide up to 1 percent lower fuel consumption over the life of the product. (Note: this is not in addition to the 1 percent noted above; the total Tech Insertion fuel improvement is 1 percent over the life of the product).

For a 20-aircraft fleet, Tech Insertion could save as much as 275000 gallons of fuel per year, which equates to more than $1 million at current prices. This lower fuel consumption would also reduce carbon emission by 2,600 metric tons per year. This technology also provides longer time on wing and lower maintenance costs while meeting the new International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Committee of Aviation Environmental Protection standards.

All engines that incorporate these technology upgrades may qualify for TRUEngine™ status, a new designation which helps the industry more accurately appraise used CFM56 engines and to enhance the resale value of these assets. To qualify for TRUEngine™ status, the engine configuration, engine overhaul practices, spare parts and repairs used to service the engine must be consistent with CFM requirements for that engine model. In addition, all maintenance must comply with CFM-issued engine manuals and other maintenance recommendations. The qualification data is obtained through a combination of fleet operational and maintenance records.

The $2 billion investment also funded Project TECH56, a technology acquisition program that led to the new Tech Insertion production configuration. That same program served as the foundation for the launch of a new baseline engine, LEAP-X. This engine will provide up to 16 percent lower fuel burn (engine contribution) compared to current Tech Insertion engines and could be certified by 2016.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, CFM International
Continental Engines Achieve TRUEngine™ Status


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 14, 2008

CFM International has awarded the TRUEngine™ designation for more than 500 CFM56-3 and CFM56-7B engines in the Continental Airlines fleet, making the airline the first to be granted this status.

TRUEngine™ is a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company of Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

"The TRUEngine™ program helps us protect our investment in our CFM56 engines," said Ron Baur, Staff Vice President -Fleet Management. "We are in the midst of one of the most challenging times in our industry’s history, and operators worldwide are looking for ways to reduce costs. As we work to reduce capacity by divesting our older 737-300 and 737-500 aircraft, we believe the TRUEngineTM status of our CFM56-3 engines makes the engines more marketable and helps us achieve a higher resale value."

The Continental engines were awarded TRUEngine™ status following a comprehensive review of the airline’s fleet operational data and maintenance records.

These records validated that maintenance of all of the engines is consistent with CFM International’s requirements for those engine models, including maintenance practices, spare parts and repairs and that they comply with CFM-issued engine manuals, service bulletins, and other maintenance recommendations.

The CFM56 engines of several more fleet owners will soon be evaluated for the TRUEngine™ designation, which will be available to all CFM56 engines meeting the criteria.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, CFM International
Saudi Arabian Airlines Expands CFM56-5B-Powered Fleet With New $300 Million Engine Order


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 14, 2008

Saudi Arabian Airlines today announced that it has again selected the CFM56-5B engine to power 22 new Airbus A320 family aircraft. The order is valued at approximately $300 million at list price. This is in addition to previously selecting 20 leased Airbus A320s, also powered by CFM56-5B engines The airline will begin taking delivery of new aircraft in 2009.

CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company, is the world’s leading supplier of commercial aircraft engines with more than 18,500 delivered to nearly 500 operators around the globe.

Saudi Arabian Airlines, the flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, began operations 1945 with a single twin-engined DC-3 that had been presented to King Abdul Aziz Al-Saud as a gift by the then U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Today, it is one of the Asia’s largest airlines, operating a fleet of 98 aircraft to nearly 90 destinations. It operates flights to more than 60 destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe and North America.

"The CFM56-5B is the right engine for our A320 new fleet. The engine combines operational efficiency as well as lower NOx emissions for our planet" said His Excellency Engineer Khalid Al-Molhem, Director General of Saudi Arabian Airlines.

"We are obviously honored that an airline of this caliber has chosen to make the CFM56 product such an important part of its fleet," said Muhammad Al-Lamadani, CFM’s Senior Executive - Regional Sales for the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Commonwealth of Independent States (former Soviet Union). "We believe the high reliability, excellent fuel burn, and very low overall operating costs will make the airplane an invaluable part of the Saudi Arabian fleet."

All of Saudi Arabian’s CFM56-5B engines are the Tech Insertion configuration. This technology will provide operators with a 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption over the life of the product, compared to the base CFM56-5B engine. This lower fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by 200 tons per aircraft per year. Improved analytic design tools have also enabled CFM to further optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions.

Over the engine’s life cycle, Tech Insertion will also provide operators with longer time on wing and will lower maintenance costs between five and 12 percent, depending on the thrust rating. These benefits are achieved through improvements to the high-pressure compressor and the high- and low-pressure turbines.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.07.2008, CFM International
China Southern Chooses CFM56-5B to Power New A320 Aircraft


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 14, 2008

China Southern Airlines today announced that it has selected CFM56-5B engines to power a new fleet of 20 Airbus A320 family aircraft, and back the engine purchase with a long-term material services agreement.

CFM56-5B engines are a product of CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

China Southern, one of the largest airlines operating in The People’s Republic of China, operates more than 600 domestic and international routes. It is also the first Chinese airline and the only one who is ranked as top five carriers in the world in terms of volume of passenger traffic. The airline was one of CFM’s first customers in China and the airline has been operating CFM56 engines for more than 20 years. The aircraft announced today, which will be delivered between March 2009 and mid-2011, will nearly double the airlines current CFM56-powered A320 fleet. China Southern also operates 27 CFM56-3-powered 737 Classics as well as 71 Boeing Next-Generation 737s. An additional 65 737NG are on order, with deliveries scheduled through 2013.

"China Southern is a long-time CFM customer and we honored that an airline of this caliber continues to put its trust in CFM56 engines," said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM.

China Southern’s new CFM56-5B/3 engines will be the Tech Insertion configuration, which incorporates advanced technologies to provide operators with improved fuel burn and lower maintenance costs. Compared to the base CFM56-5B engines already in the airline’s fleet, the Tech Insertion-powered fleet of 20 aircraft could save the airline as much as 275,000 gallons of fuel each year, as well as significantly lowering carbon emissions.

Improved analytic design tools enabled CFM to optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions, providing even grater margin to the new International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Committee of Aviation Environmental Protection emissions standards (CAEP /6 regulations) which took effect in early 2008

The CFM56-5B is popular with major airlines, low-cost carriers, and leasing companies alike. More than 3,150 CFM56-5B engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet is growing at a rate of about 40 engines per month. Primary factors behind the engine’s broad-based acceptance include this industry’s best reliability, durability, low cost of ownership, and world-class customer and product support. The CFM56-5B is the only engine that can power every model of the A320 family, from the small A318 up to the A321, with the same bill of materials.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

13.07.2008, CFM International
CFM International launches TRUEngine™ Program


LONDON, England — July 13, 2008

CFM International has launched the TRUEngine™ designation to help the industry more accurately appraise used CFM56 engines and to enhance the resale value of these assets.

CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint venture between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

"The industry has asked CFM for better ways to determine the value of engines as they are redistributed in aircraft fleets," says Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM International. "The TRUEngine™ program allows you to more easily evaluate used CFM56 engines by serial number, based on data currently not widely accessible."

The TRUEngine™ designation will be available to all CFM56 engines meeting the criteria and several fleets of engines are currently being evaluated.

To qualify for TRUEngine™ status, the engine configuration, engine overhaul practices, spare parts and repairs used to service the engine must be consistent with CFM requirements for that engine model. In addition, all maintenance must comply with CFM-issued engine manuals and other maintenance recommendations. The qualification data is obtained through a combination of fleet operational and maintenance records.

Commercial jet engines typically are in service for more than 25 years and change ownership at least once in their operational life. The engine’s configuration, material content, maintenance history, and supportability impact overall value as it changes ownership.

The TRUEngine™ program is being embraced by the industry’s leading asset valuation providers, including the International Bureau of Aviation (IBA), AVITAS, and Ascend.

"Access to the data provided by the TRUEngine™ program is great news for the industry," says Gehan Talwatte, managing director of Ascend. "Having CFM confirm that the engines have been maintained to the original manufacturer’s standards will help appraisers reflect the true market value of the asset. We also like the convenience of tracking used CFM56 engines by serial number."

The TRUEngine™ designation also facilitates CFM’s ability to provide technical support. Jet engines contain multiple, complex systems whose interactions must be carefully controlled. CFM’s engine support is built upon technical expertise for genuine CFM56 parts and configurations, as well as data gained from the vast operational history of the global CFM56 engine population.

CFM designs and continually improves the CFM56 family, the world’s most utilized commercial jet engine. Nearly 16,000 CFM56 engines are in commercial service powering several aircraft models, most prominently the Boeing 737 and Airbus 320 families, with nearly 500 operators worldwide.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

13.07.2008, CFM International
CFM Unveils New LEAP-X Engine


LONDON, England — July 13, 2008

CFM International has launched LEAP-X, an entirely new baseline turbofan engine to power future replacements for current narrow-body aircraft. This engine will incorporate revolutionary technologies developed over the last three years as part of the LEAP56 technology acquisition program.

The first full demonstrator engine is scheduled to run in 2012, and LEAP-X could be certified by 2016. This advanced new turbofan will reduce the engine contribution to aircraft fuel burn by up to 16 percent compared to current CFM56 Tech Insertion engines that power Airbus A320 and Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. Additional fuel burn improvements will be achieved once this engine is paired with new aircraft technology.

CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint venture between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. The two parent companies have just signed an agreement renewing their partnership until the year 2040, ensuring that all engines in the 18,000 to 50,000 pound thrust class developed in that timeframe will fall under the CFM umbrella.

"When we launched the LEAP56 technology development program in 2005, fuel was at $1.30 a gallon," said Eric Bachelet. "Today, airlines are paying nearly $4.00 a gallon. Our customers are hurting and we are responding. LEAP56 is the single largest investment in technology in our history; we are bringing the full technical and financial resources of our parent companies to bear to give them a solution: LEAP-X. We have set aggressive targets for this engine, and the technology plan is in place to achieve them."

The foundation of the LEAP-X engine is heavily rooted in advanced aerodynamics, environmental, and materials technology development programs. For more than 15 years, Snecma has been developing composite fan blade technology. More recently, the company has focused on the revolutionary three-dimensional, woven resin transfer molding (3-DW RTM) technology that dramatically reduces engine weight while providing a more durable blade. Development of Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) technology has been underway at GE for more than 25 years. This ultra-light-weight material can support the extremely high temperatures found in the high-pressure turbine. Titanium-Aluminide (Ti-Aluminide), a lightweight alloy that has been under development for the past 20 years, will also be incorporated into the engine.

In late 2008, CFM will perform a series of full-scale fan demonstrator engine tests with the 3-DW RTM fan blades being developed as part of Snecma’s MASCOT program. The engine will complete extensive performance ground tests at Snecma facilities in Villaroche, France, before being transported to GE’s outdoor test facility in Peebles, Ohio, for acoustic and crosswind testing. This innovative new composite technology reduces engine weight by approximately 400 pounds and the fan blade count by 25 percent.

The first full core is scheduled to begin testing next year. Hardware for the core, which features an eight-stage compressor and single-stage turbine, is being produced now and the core is targeted to fire by mid-2009. A second core test is also planned.

"We are excited about this new engine, but we also think we need to remain flexible," said Bachelet. "If fuel prices continue to rise, we will need to raise the bar even higher and introduce even more advanced technology. For the next three years, we are pursuing parallel paths: the LEAP-X advanced turbofan and the open rotor. The foundational technologies support either architecture, and we are making good progress toward finding solutions for the inherent technical challenges of an open rotor configuration."

CFM is currently conducting studies in four areas for the open rotor configuration: fan aerodynamics and acoustics; mechanical design, including a pitch change mechanism; aircraft installation; and certification methodology. Technology demonstration tests begin next year and will extend through 2011.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.07.2008, CFM International
CFM Receives $5+ billion in New Orders, Materials Agreements at Farnborough Air Show; TRUEngine™ Program A Great Success


FARNBOROUGH, England — July 17, 2008

CFM International booked orders for 540* new CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines during the 2008 Farnborough Air Show, in addition to inking a materials and service agreement with ST Aerospace. These agreements are valued at more than $5 billion U.S.

CFM56 engines are produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. The company has just announced the extension of the relationship agreement through the year 2040.

An orders recap:

  • Pakistan’s AirBlue ordered CFM56-5B engines to power 14 Airbus A320 aircraft. The airline also signed an integrated services package to cover the maintenance, overhaul, and repair of this fleet.
  • Aeroflot ordered CFM56-5B engines to power 5 Airbus A321s.
  • Air China ordered 30 CFM56-7B-powered Boeing Next-Generation 737s.
  • Arik ordered seven CFM56-7B-powered Boeing Next-Generation 737s.
  • Aviation Capital Group (ACG) CFM56-5B engine to power 25 firm Airbus A320 family aircraft. The leasing company also orders 15 CFM56-7B-powered Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
  • Dublin-based AWAS chose CFM56-5B engines to power 45 firm and up to 55 option A320 aircraft.
  • British Airways has ordered CFM56-5B engine to power two Airbus A318 aircraft.
  • China Southern Airlines CFM56-5B engines to power 20 Airbus A320 family aircraft, and back the engine purchase with a long-term material services agreement.
  • The Dubai government’s new low-cost carrier, FlyDubai, ordered 50 CFM56-7B-powered Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 and 737-900 aircraft.
  • Malaysia Airlines ordered 35 CFM56-7B-powered Boeing 737s.
  • Saudi Arabian Airlines selected the CFM56-5B engine to power 22 new Airbus A320 family aircraft.

CFM International (CFM) has inked a series of agreements with Singapore Technologies Aerospace Ltd. (ST Aerospace) valued at $1.5 billion U.S. in support of ST Aerospace’s CFM56-3, CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) operations. These agreements include a comprehensive 10-year materials services agreement that encompasses component repairs and the provision of both new and used serviceable materials for life-limited and non-life limited parts for the CFM56 engine.

In addition, CFM International also launched the TRUEngine™ designation to help the industry more accurately appraise used CFM56 engines and to enhance the resale value of these assets. This designation is available to all CFM56 engines meeting the criteria. To date, more than 1,600 engines from Continental Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines have been granted TRUEngine™ status.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.07.2008, Turbomeca
Turbomeca USA (SAFRAN Group) and the East Bay Regional Park District sign a Support By the Hour (SBH®) Contract


Houston, 17 July 2008

During the 38th Annual Airborne Law Enforcement Conference and Exposition (Houston), Turbomeca USA and the East Bay Regional Park District will enter into a SBH® contract for engine support, repair and overhaul services. This contract will cover their new Arriel 2B1 engine which was delivered in May.

The East Bay Regional Park District, Department of Public Safety operates two turbine-powered helicopters that provide seven-days-a-week police patrol, initial attack fire suppression, emergency medical transports and search & rescue coverage. The Air Support Unit consists of four pilots, three Tactical Flight Officers, one mechanic and a cadre of Volunteer Flight Medics that operate these agile, high-speed aircraft. Helicopter crews work in concert with District Police patrol officers and Fire Fighters to ensure the safety of all park visitors. In addition, District Police helicopters will assist any allied police agency requesting mutual aid.

East Bay Regional Park District has been a long standing supporter of Turbomeca and its Support By the Hour Program. They have had engines enrolled in the SBH® Program for over 20 years.

“The SBH® program provides peace of mind regarding engine operation and maintenance costs. On-going costs are known before hand and budgeted accordingly. Engine operation and eventual overhaul costs are broken down to predictable levels. In addition, our SBH® contract provides timely delivery of inspection kits, consumable items and technical support. We also enjoy engine rentals at our present SBH® hourly rate, so we can remain in service, on budget and in the air flying”, said S/ Andrew D. White, Sergeant/Chief Pilot.

Turbomeca offers Support By the Hour packages customized to fit specific mission requirements such as Airborne Law Enforcement. Each customized package is charged monthly based on the number of hours flown, with no minimums. From basic engine support to fully comprehensive care, SBH® offers flexibility and ease of use for all missions.

***

About Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 26 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

18.07.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Airbus selects Sagem Défense Sécurité for the A350 XWB’s flight data acquisition and security system


Farnborough, July 18, 2008

Following international bidding, Airbus has selected Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) to supply the flight data acquisition and security system for its future long-haul A350 XWB.

Sagem Défense Sécurité will develop, produce, integrate and provide support for the system, which will consist of two components:

  • The Centralized Data Acquisition Unit (CDAU), which acquires, processes, monitors, displays and records data available on the plane in order to monitor systems and provide airplane maintenance and flight safety,
  • The Secure Communication Interface (SCI), which will provide the secure link between the plane’s avionics core and the open information.

The proposed solution draws on the technological advances of the onboard information equipment for Airbus’s A380 and A400M – developed and produced by Sagem Défense Sécurité. The company’s know-how in secure flight data acquisition and processing – crucial to future aircraft health monitoring systems – was decisive in Airbus’ choice.

In addition to Sagem Défense Sécurité, Messier-Dowty has been chosen for the main landing gear and Messier-Bugatti for the landing and braking control system, making for a strong presence for SAFRAN Group in the A350 XWB program.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

29.07.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité introduces latest-generation mobile ID terminal, Morpho RapID 1100


Paris, July 29, 2008 – Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) has announced the launch of a new generation of mobile identification and information terminals, dubbed Morpho RapID 1100. Designed for mobile police forces and border police, these terminals will provide real-time identification of criminals based on fingerprint and facial recognition.

The new terminal’s graphics interface and connectivity with most current communications networks means that police forces will have real-time access to highly accurate information, allowing them to respond to all demands. Police forces will be able to increase their presence in the field and provide the appropriate solution to any situation, immediately.

“Morpho RapID 1100 is the result of a joint effort by Sagem Sécurité and Psion Teklogix, the leader in communicating mobile terminals, working in conjunction with police forces,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “It combines state-of-the-art technologies in biometrics, communications and ergonomic design, all in a single device.”

Based on recognized expertise in real-time identification technologies, the Morpho RapID 1100 provides an innovative solution to meet the growing needs of today’s mobile police forces. Sagem Sécurité now has some 400,000 biometric terminals deployed worldwide, confirming its position as the world leader in biometric identification systems.

***

About Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

31.07.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN divests mobile phone unit, works with Sofinnova to ensure the growth of this business


Paris, July 31, 2008

SAFRAN has signed a formal agreement with Sofinnova, providing for the divestment of its mobile phone business under optimum social and financial conditions. Sofinnova, a French venture capital firm specialized in high technology, was created in 1972 and is the European leader in this sector. The agreement is subject to the approval of employee representative bodies.

Sagem Mobiles will continue to conduct its business until this transaction is completed, which should be by the end of 2008 at the latest.

Drawing on the franchise, brand and technologies contributed by SAFRAN, Sofinnova will create a new mobile phone ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) company. It will develop and market products under other brand names, and on behalf of operators or other manufacturers, as well as for fashion, sports and luxury companies.

The new company will be named Sagem Wireless, and will be based in Cergy-Pontoise, near Paris. Sofinnova will hold a majority stake, while SAFRAN will retain approximately 10%.

Pasquale Pistorio, a well-known leader in the high-tech business sector, has accepted the position of Chairman of the Board.

The new company will have about 310 employees (70 at Cergy-Pontoise and 240 at Ningbo, China), and will call on Esmertec and Purple Labs for the development of its software platforms. Sofinnova is a shareholder in these two companies, which are leaders in their telecommunications software markets. About 250 staff members from Sagem Mobiles’ R&D department will transfer to these two companies, and will stay at Cergy-Pontoise.

The new company will also subcontract mobile phone personalization and packaging operations to the SAFRAN plant in Fougères.

For Sagem Mobiles employees not covered by these transfers, SAFRAN will offer priority redeployment within the Group, primarily in the security and onboard electronics sectors, which are currently enjoying strong growth and require similar qualifications.

The SAFRAN Group has already set up new operations at its Fougères site, including integration of the FELIN soldier modernization system and production of PC boards. It will continue to diversify its site by transferring complementary operations in related fields.

The total cost of these changes is approximately 220 million euros. In addition to the operating loss posted by this business for 2008, this amount mainly includes support and adaptation measures applied at the entities and sites concerned, as well as various charges and asset depreciation.

“Several months ago, I pledged to find a solution for our mobile phone business; today, I have fulfilled this pledge,” said Jean-Paul Herteman, CEO of SAFRAN. “I am convinced that this will be a successful solution, because the ODM business model clearly addresses specific needs, while at the same time we will reduce our fixed costs by integrating the R&D teams from Sagem Mobiles and companies in the Sofinnova portfolio. SAFRAN will of course make sure that we provide satisfactory solutions to each and every person who is not involved in the activities of the new organization: not only is this our duty as a good corporate citizen, but also because these persons will provide invaluable reinforcements for the development of SAFRAN is other sectors.”

“Europe is both the birthplace and the main center of innovation for mobile telephony,” said Jean Schmitt, Managing Partner of Sofinnova. “For nearly a decade now, we have invested in the emerging global leaders in this market. With this latest transaction, we can bolster the software companies that are leaders in this market, and also create a large-scale software R&D center at Cergy. Above all, this transaction creates Sagem Wireless, which has the world-class people and technologies needed to become a global leader.”

“Sagem Wireless will combine the expertise of the people from Sagem Mobiles, and the dynamic innovation mindset contributed by companies in the Sofinnova portfolio to offer products with a distinctive difference, tailored to the specific requirements of our partner-clients,” added Thierry Buffenoir, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Mobiles. “Our broad European presence, technological strengths and forward-looking strategy should undoubtedly enable us to win over today’s leading brands by offering unrivaled products. Sagem Wireless clearly enjoys a very promising growth outlook in its chosen market.”

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.
SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

05.08.2008, SAFRAN
Carbon brakes for the Boeing 737 Next-Generation family: a world first


Paris, August 5, 2008 – Messier-Bugatti (SAFRAN Group) has successfully completed the certification tests for its wheels and carbon brakes intended for the Boeing 737 Next-Generation family of twinjets. All the advantages of carbon brakes are now available for all versions of this family: 737-600, 737-700, 737-800, 737-900 and 737-900ER.

The Sepcarb®III OR (Oxidation Resistant) carbon brake by Messier-Bugatti, a worldwide best-seller, will enter service this week on a Delta Air Lines 737-700.

Messier-Bugatti is the only brake manufacturer in the world to offer this technology as an alternative to steel brakes. It is targeting a potential market of several thousand aircraft, either new or retrofits on aircraft already in service, worth up to $3 billion for SAFRAN.

Carbon brakes offer a host of advantages: commonality across the entire Next-Generation 737 fleet, cost-competitiveness, lighter weight, longer endurance (average of 2,200 landings per overhaul/LPO) and faster turnaround time for the aircraft after landing.

These carbon brakes will save up to 320 kg per aircraft, which means that airlines can reduce their CO2 emissions and cut fuel consumption, saving about $50,000 per year per aircraft.

Messier-Bugatti has been recognized as one of Boeing’s “Silver” suppliers, representing fewer than 2% of the aircraft manufacturer’s suppliers, and capable of delivering 98% of equipment on time, with a quality rate of 99.7%.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

Messier-Bugatti, SAFRAN Group, is a world actor in the field of aeronautical braking and carbon brakes. Messier-Bugatti wheels and carbon brakes equips more than 3,400 commercial aircraft across the world, including almost 250 airline companies and 20 airforces amongst its customers and providing them with support throughout the entire world. As system integrator, Messier-Bugatti also provides excellence and innovation for more than 9,000 aircraft in functions such as braking, steering, landing and monitoring systems.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.messier-bugatti.com

PRESS RELEASE

08.09.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN teams up with the Fondation d’Auteuil on an introduction to sailing for teenagers


Paris, September 8, 2008

At the end of July, the SAFRAN Group offered an “introduction to sailing” camp stay to 14 teenagers from the Fondation d’Auteuil*. The program proved to be a great success, as the apprentice skippers learned the basics of sailing, and also formed a real friendship with Marc Guillemot, seasoned skipper of the Safran Open 60 monohull racing yacht.

The youngsters were given a close-up look at this impressive boat, to see not only how it is outfitted, but also the advanced technologies contributed by companies in the SAFRAN high-tech group. Marc Guillemot answered their eager questions on life at sea, the capabilities of a world-class athlete, and the energy and determination needed for a three-month solo race around the world.

Armed with this knowledge, they will be keen observers of the 2008 Vendée Globe round-the-world solo race, in which Marc Guillemot will be competing. But first, Marc made an appointment to see his young friends again, on Tuesday, September 16 at 6:00 pm in the Paris suburb of Meudon. Together, they will study the navigator’s planned route on a map of the world. Following his progress will be an invaluable aid for the educators in charge of these teenagers, since just about every subject – geography, history, language, literature, science and more – will take on new importance as seen through this exciting event.

The young sailors will see Marc Guillemot once more before the start of the race, since they have agreed to meet at the Vendée Globe village. After the start of the race, they will get the latest news through his radio dispatches, and they will all be cheering on their favorite skipper!

***

Watch the video on www.safransixty.com

***

The "FONDATION D’AUTEUIL" is an association that welcomes over 10,000 young people with personal, social, academic difficulties. It provides housing, education and professional training to these young people, who have been placed by their families or by local social services. Each youngster is given personalized training to develop his or her skills and expertise in a chosen field. There are seven different training courses covering some 40 professions.

The SAFRAN Group applies patronage measures through its two foundations, one aimed at enhancing the integration of young adults in difficulty, and the other supporting young artists. At the same time, it takes a very active approach to social solidarity. One of SAFRAN’s primary objectives in this area is to improve the access of disadvantaged sections of the population to science, technology, culture and leisure activities. SAFRAN’s core values include people development and recognition, and this value is fully expressed through the Group’s long-standing partnership with the Fondation d’Auteuil.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.fondation-auteuil.org

PRESS RELEASE

08.09.2008, CFM International
CIT AEROSPACE Places $200 Million Order for CFM56-5B Engines


EVENDALE, Ohio — September 8, 2008 — CIT Aerospace today announced that is has selected CFM International’s CFM56-5B engine to power 15 firm Airbus A320 family aircraft. The order is valued at approximately $200 million (U.S.) at list price and the aircraft are scheduled for delivery through 2015.

CFM56-5B engines are produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

"We have built a great relationship with CIT over the years and are very excited to help them with their growth through the selection of the highly reliable CFM56-5B engines to power the A320 family of aircraft, " said Bill Clapper, executive vice president of CFM.

CIT Aerospace is a long-time CFM customer and has taken delivery of a total of 50 CFM56-5B-powered A320s to date. The company also has either on order or in service 46 CFM56-7B-powered Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 and 737-900 aircraft.

CIT is one of the world’s largest publicly held commercial finance organizations with more than $70 billion in managed assets. CIT Aerospace, a unit of CIT, provides financing solutions to a broad spectrum of the global aerospace value chain ranging from operators of commercial and business aircraft to manufacturers and suppliers in the aerospace and defense industries as well as financial institutions. CIT owns or finances a fleet of more than 300 commercial and business aircraft leased and financed to more than 100 airlines around the world.

All of CIT’s new CFM56-5B engines will be in the Tech Insertion configuration. This technology will provide operators with a 1 percent improvement in fuel consumption over the life of the product, compared to the base CFM56-5B engine. This lower fuel consumption will also lower CO2, reducing these emissions by 200 tons per aircraft per year. Improved analytic design tools have also enabled CFM to further optimize the Tech Insertion combustor so that it will provide 25 percent lower NOx emissions.

Over the engine’s life cycle, Tech Insertion will also provide operators with longer time on wing and will lower maintenance costs by between five and 12 percent, depending on the thrust rating. These benefits are achieved through improvements to the high-pressure compressor and the high- and low-pressure turbines.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

15.09.2008, Turbomeca
Appointment within Turbomeca Asia Pacific


Bordes, 15 September 2008

As from September 15, 2008, Gérard Brohez is appointed General Manager of Turbomeca Asia Pacific. He is succeeding Michel Brouquet who has assumed other responsibilities within Turbomeca.

At 55 years old, Gérard Brohez is an electro-mechanical engineer and holds a master’s degree in space technology from the Liège university in Belgium.
He started his career at Turbomeca in 2003 as head of the proximity technical support department. Previously, he spent 16 years in Europe for Techspace Aero (SAFRAN Group). He notably worked for 3 years within the SEP (Société Européenne de Propulsion) for Ariane launch vehicle engines. Gérard Brohez has a strong Asian culture. Indeed, he was based in Indonesia and Thailand for 15 years, covering most of the south-east Asian countries.

Turbomeca Asia Pacific
Turbomeca Asia Pacific is one of the 15 Turbomeca sites, employing 29 persons and providing support for more than 120 operators with 800 engines in over 14 countries (ASEAN- Association of Southeast Asian Nations, South Korea, Taiwan, India).
The site manages three TurboSupport Centers (service and distribution centers) in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Manila. The site’s Field Reps are deployed in Malaysia, India, Hong Kong and Singapore.

***

About Turbomeca
Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group) is the leading helicopter engine manufacturer, and has produced over 50 000 turbines based on its own designs since the company was founded. With 2,200 customers in over 150 countries, Turbomeca provides a proximity service thanks to its 15 sites, 2 subsidiaries, 26 TurboSupport Centers, 24 repair centers and 90 Field representatives and Field technicians. The Head Office is based in Bordes, Pyrénées-Atlantiques (south-west France). Microturbo, a subsidiary of Turbomeca, is the European leader in turbojet engines for missiles, drones and auxiliary power units.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.turbomeca.fr | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.09.2008, Labinal
Labinal transfers headquarters to Toulouse-Blagnac


Blagnac, September 17, 2008

Labinal’s new headquarters in Blagnac (near Toulouse), which started operation on June 16, was inaugurated yesterday in a ceremony attended by a number of local officials, plus representatives of the parent SAFRAN Group, including Chief Executive Officer Jean-Paul Herteman.

Labinal has centralized all European engineering, production and installation management teams at a single site to enhance efficiency and ensure shorter, more direct communications pathways to accelerate decision-making. The company’s new headquarters is designed to facilitate collaboration between teams, and ensure Labinal’s long-term profitability.

Located next to the design department in Blagnac and the production facility in Villemur, Labinal’s new headquarters will be the center of excellence for the company’s main businesses in Europe.

“By consolidating resources we will further bolster the company’s dynamic approach to meeting our commitments, and continue to enhance customer satisfaction,” said Norman Jordan, Chairman and CEO of Labinal.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.labinal.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.09.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN and Creuzet renew collaboration for five years, start development of new aero-engine blade technologies


Marmande, September 16, 2008

SAFRAN and Creuzet have confirmed the renewal of their collaboration agreement for a period of five years, reflecting their commitment to continuing a fruitful partnership.

Working in partnership, the two companies will launch new technology studies, such as the development of leading-edge airfoils for fan blades. Their agreement also confirms the continued collaboration through 2013 between the Creuzet group company Creuzet Aéronautique and SAFRAN Group companies Snecma and Techspace Aero, for the production of engine parts.

The two groups first teamed up over 30 years ago through joint participations in major international aircraft programs, resulting in reciprocal technological contributions to commercial aircraft engines.

During the 1970s, Creuzet Aéronautique played a decisive role in the launch of the CFM56 engine, by developing an innovative technology for the production of compressor blades.

Snecma and Creuzet signed a collaboration agreement in the 1980s, providing for the deployment of integrated teams in charge of new studies (e.g., reduction in compressor production costs, a bolted blade concept developed by Creuzet). In 1995, the two companies jointly filed a patent for the drilling of hollow titanium blades, and they created a joint venture in Poland in 2003.

“SAFRAN and Creuzet share the same commitment to developing advanced technologies,” said Jean-Paul Herteman, Chief Executive Officer of SAFRAN. “By renewing this partnership we are reaffirming our commitment to continuing and strengthening our bonds to deliver technologies that will benefit aircraft both today and in the future.”

“Over the last few decades, SAFRAN has enabled us to develop a number of new technologies, which have played a pivotal role in fostering the growth and credibility of Creuzet,” said Jacques Barillot-Creuzet, Chairman and CEO of the Creuzet Group. “I am especially delighted and proud of this latest agreement, which will enable us to pursue and consolidate our relationship of mutual trust, and build even more solid foundations for the future.”

*** SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.
SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

23.09.2008, Sagem Sécurité
The Hong Kong Jockey Club chooses Sagem Sécurité gaming terminals


Paris, September 23, 2008 – Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) has announced its selection by the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC), in an international call for tenders, to supply, install and maintain 2,000 new generation gaming terminals to support HKJC’s ongoing business, as supplier of a custom-tailored terminal derived from the Sagem S8 family.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club carried out a series of demanding tests that spotlighted the qualities of the S8, in particular its innovative design, secure transaction capability and user-friendliness. Modular and versatile, the S8 terminal matches the environment at sales outlets, and can be used as a stand-alone terminal or with an operator. The terminal’s software will be developed in partnership with the company LotSys*. Sagem Sécurité was able to tailor its product offering to meet the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s requirements.

“We are both proud and honored to be chosen by the very prestigious Hong Kong Jockey Club,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “And we sincerely hope that this is only the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship, one that will bolster our presence in the market for gaming and betting terminals.”

Capitalizing on its considerable investment in Research & Development, Sagem Sécurité is a major global player in the market for gaming terminals. With more than 180,000 terminals deployed to date, Sagem Sécurité has proven its ability to deliver innovative turnkey solutions that meet the requirements of lottery organizations around the world.

* LotSys is a subsidiary of La Française des Jeux.

***

About Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.09.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Albania selects Sagem Sécurité for secure ID documents


Paris, September 24, 2008 – Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) announced today that it has won an international call for tenders from the Albanian Ministry of the Interior to set up a production and distribution concession for electronic passports and identification cards.

Sagem Sécurité will supply a complete secure ID document production system, based on its latest-generation Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS). The expertise of Sagem Orga and SDU Identification, Sagem Sécurité‘s subsidiaries, will guarantee the reliable and highly secured issuance of ID documents. Citizens of the Republic of Albania will have an identification solution approved by all countries, the European Union and international institutions.

“This contract is an outstanding reference for Sagem Sécurité, and opens up new prospects within the scope of current reforms in Albania,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “It’s an example of Sagem Sécurité cooperation with Sagem Orga and SDU Identification.”

Albania thus joins the other forward-looking countries that are pioneering the use of e-documents for identification purposes. The concession will call on powerful technologies applied to the nation-wide management of databases, and further consolidates Sagem Sécurité’s leadership in the secure ID document market.

***

About Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

25.09.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité wins feasibility study contract for Paris Fire Department’s future integrated equipment


Paris, September 24th, 2008

The Paris Fire Department (France) has awarded Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) the contract for the feasibility study of the Multimedia Observation and Communication System that will equip city firefighters.

Slated to last six months, the study will use Sagem Défense Sécurité’s Rescuer’s Observation and Information Network (ROBIN) for the needs of firefighter crews. It will draw on dual technologies in the FELIN and SITEL* systems, both designed by Sagem Défense Sécurité to modernize France’s infantry.

The future system will substantially improve the efficiency and security of intervention crews by providing entirely new features:

  • Video, fixed images, voice and data transmission via a high-speed multimedia radio network
  • Detection of victims and firefighters in closed-off spaces with no visibility via infrared technology
  • Three dimension real-time displays of the intervention zone and location of firefighters
  • Centralized control of individual security equipment of involved firefighters, etc

It will be interoperable with the firefighters’ Antares network of digital radio communications and will be 100% open to civilian communications standards.

* FELIN: French Army’s integrated soldier suite
SITEL: elementary terminal information system

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

25.09.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN statement concerning the A400M


Paris, September 25, 2008

SAFRAN, along with its partners in EPI, the European consortium in charge of the engines for the A400M military transport, would like to clarify the following points.

1) The eight TP400 turboprop engines for the first two A400M flight test models have been delivered to Airbus Military.

2) The control software for these engines, also covering control of the propeller and the nacelle, which are the responsibility of Airbus Military, are currently in the final phase of compliance with civil aviation standards. However, prior to the first flight of the A400M, this software will integrate adjustments following the completion of engine test flights on a C-130. These tests, which are under the responsibility of Airbus Military, have not yet started; EPI delivered the test engine in late 2007, and received flight readiness approval for the engine and associated software on the C-130 in April 2008.

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

26.09.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN inaugurates three new facilities in the United States


Paris, September 26, 2008

On September 24, 25 and 26, Jean-Paul Herteman, Chief Executive Officer of SAFRAN, successively inaugurated three new facilities in the Unites States: Sagem Avionics in Grand Prairie, Texas, Turbomeca Manufacturing in Monroe, North Carolina, and Messier-Bugatti USA in Walton, Kentucky. All three inauguration ceremonies were attended by a number of government officials.

Sagem Avionics, which mainly produces parts for the autopilot system on U.S. Army helicopters, has just created a new production unit to meet the requirements of the Lakota UH-72A program.

Turbomeca Manufacturing is the first Turbomeca production site for turbine engine parts outside of France. It will make parts for the Arriel 1E2 that powers the U.S. Army’s Eurocopter UH-72A helicopters.

Messier-Bugatti USA has built a new facility at its plant in Walton, Kentucky for the production and assembly of wheels and carbon brakes, primarily intended for U.S. clients: airlines that deploy the Boeing 737 Next-Generation twinjets and the 777-200LR/300ER longer-range widebody twins; and the U.S. Air Force’s C-17 and KC-135. This facility will also produce electric brakes for the 787 Dreamliner.

“SAFRAN has some 7,500 employees in North America among which 3,500 in the USA,” noted Jean-Paul Herteman, CEO of SAFRAN. “Our aim is to continue to extend our industrial network in the country and to contribute to the development of the aerospace and security markets as an American company, to ensure optimum service for our civil and military customers in the United States, but also, obviously, to reduce our costs and exposure to the US dollar.”

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.safran-na.com

PRESS RELEASE

01.10.2008, Techspace Aero
Techspace Aero and CIAM has successfully completed the test campaign aimed at validating a low pressure compressor for cleaner engines within the European VITAL program context


Milmort, September 30, 2008

Techspace Aero (SAFRAN Group) and CIAM (Central Institute of Aviation Motors, Moscow) have successfully completed a test campaign of a low pressure compressor prototype integrated in an aeronautic engine fan module. The research has been carried out under the European VITAL program, whose object is to reduce fuel burn, noise and CO2 emissions of aircraft engines.

The technologies designed by Techspace Aero and tested at CIAM aim to make the low-pressure compressor more compact and lighter by improving aerodynamics.

The fan module has successfully completed a seven weeks test programme. The program started July 3rd, with extended performance evaluation and booster mapping at low and high rotation speed. It was carried out at the unique CIAM facilities which enabled altitude testing at low pressure and temperature conditions.

This program marks success for the Belgian and Russian companies, paving the way to future EU-Russia collaboration. Techspace Aero is keen to emphasize the essential support provided by the Walloon region and European authorities without whom such breakthroughs could not be achieved.

The new technology will now be embedded in the upcoming engine generation, including the Leap X program developed by CFM International (JV between General Electric and Snecma, SAFRAN group), which aims to drastically reduce fuel burn.

***

Partner to the world’s major engine manufacturers, Techspace Aero designs, develops and produces modules, equipment and test benches for aeronautical and space engines. Thanks to its high-tech products, Techspace Aero contributes to the success of Airbus (A320, A330, A340 and A380), Boeing (B737, B747, B767, B777, B787), Embraer (190) and many other flights.
A SAFRAN Group company (F- 56% of capital), Techspace Aero’s other shareholders are the Walloon Region (B- 31 %), Pratt & Whitney (USA- 11%) and the Federal Investment Company (B- 2%). The company achieved turnover of EUR 378 million in 2007 with a 1,350 strong workforce.

VITAL is a project co-funded by the European Commission under the Sixth Framework Programme. Contract N°012271

VITAL is a new collaborative research project, running for four years, which aims to significantly reduce aircraft engine noise and CO2 emissions. It has a total budget of 91 million euros, including 51 million euros in funding from the European Commission. Snecma (SAFRAN Group) leads a consortium of 53 partners gathering all major European engine manufacturers: Rolls-Royce Plc, MTU Aero Engines, Avio, Volvo Aero, Techspace Aero Rolls-Royce Deutschland and ITP, and the airframer Airbus.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.techspace-aero.be

PRESS RELEASE

03.10.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN showcases expertise on Champs-Elysées for 100th anniversary of French aerospace industry


Paris, October 3, 2008

The 100th anniversary of the French aerospace industry is being feted with an exceptional exhibition on the Champs-Elysées in Paris from October 4 to 12, 2008, organized by industry association Gifas. The SAFRAN Group is of course playing an active role in this landmark event, with a number of its aerospace engines and systems on display.

The public will be able to admire some of the landmark powerplants produced by Group companies: the Vulcain cryogenic engine (Ariane 5 launcher main stage), CFM56 turbofan (powering the Airbus A320 and all Boeing 737 jets, as well as other aircraft), SaM146 (for the Russian Superjet 100 regional jet), along with its nacelle by Aircelle, and the Arriel 2B turboshaft engine for helicopters. Also on display are the A340 landing gear and brakes, models of helicopter instrument panels and commercial aircraft flight decks, a Sperwer tactical unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and its launcher, and many other systems and equipment from SAFRAN companies.

SAFRAN will also be on hand at the Jobs-Training Forum from October 9 to 12. The aim of the forum is to provide information on career opportunities in the aerospace and defense sectors, with the possibility of meeting professionals in these fields. SAFRAN will be meeting students, recent graduates and job-seekers to tell them about the wide range of exciting jobs in the Group, and to communicate and share a real passion for aerospace.

“It’s only natural that SAFRAN is working alongside Gifas to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French aerospace industry,” said Jean-Paul Herteman, Chief Executive Officer of SAFRAN. “We have contributed to the development of this industry for more than a century, through our engines and a steady stream of innovative solutions developed over the years.”

See the Gifas website for the complete Centenary Celebration program, along with all practical information: www.gifas.asso.fr

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.
SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.gifas.asso.fr

PRESS RELEASE

06.10.2008, Snecma
Silvercrest program announces reduction in fuel burn, emissions and environmental impact


Orlando, Flo., October 5, 2008

Snecma (SAFRAN Group) announced today that Silvercrest is well on its way to meet its aggressive objectives in terms of environment. The successful high pressure core demonstrator test campaign, completed earlier this year, is now fully analyzed and paves the way to the announced 15% fuel burn improvement and 50% NOx margin vs ICAO CAEP6 standard. The future Silvercrest engine also aims to reduce noise by 20 dB versus Stage IV.

“Snecma is committed to reducing fuel burn without compromising maintenance costs,” said Francois Planaud, general manager, commercial aircraft engines. “Our goal with Silvercrest is to provide business aviation customers with the specific requirements they are seeking, while reducing the impact the engine has on environment.”

Snecma’s environmental policy applies to all products and production sites (all certified ISO 14000), including the Silvercrest engine. The company allocates 1/3 of its annual research and technology budget to reducing environmental impact. “Snecma’s research and technology efforts allow us to better meet customer expectations by providing cleaner, greener and quieter aircraft engines,” said Planaud.

Snecma is also highly focused on meeting ACARE (Advisory Council for Aerospace Research in Europe) environmental objectives. The company participates in a number of European research programs such as VITAL, Significantly Lower Community Exposure to Aircraft Noise (SILENCE(R)) and New Aero Engine Core Concepts (NEWAC) that aim to develop the innovative technologies needed to produce a significant decrease in noise and polluting emissions (CO2 and NOx) from aircraft engines.

Reducing environmental footprint is another key company objective. That is why Snecma is a member of the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association (AFRA), which helps developing better management recycling practices throughout the aviation industry.

***

Snecma, SAFRAN group, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of aircraft and space engines, with a wide range of propulsion systems on offer. The company designs and builds commercial aircraft engines that are powerful, reliable, economical and environmentally friendly, along with military aircraft engines that have always delivered world-class performance. Snecma develops and produces propulsion systems and equipment for launch vehicles and satellites. CFM56 engines are produced and marketed by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between General Electric and Snecma.

The Silvercrest engine family, developing 9,500 to 12,000 lb of thrust, is intended for large to super large business jets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma.com

PRESS RELEASE

06.10.2008, Snecma
Silvercrest program on track following successful core demonstrator tests


Orlando, Flo., October 5, 2008

Having completed testing of its Silvercrest core demonstrator earlier this year, Snecma (SAFRAN Group) is moving forward in the business aviation market.

The demonstrator was completely disassembled for inspection after more than 80 hours of operation up to takeoff speed and thermal redline. From April to late summer, Snecma’s experts analyzed test results and assessed the integrity of all core components. Results confirmed the excellent thermo-mechanical performance of the core.

Not only did the engine perform as expected, but the thorough analysis and inspection showed results completely in line with Snecma’s expectations.

"Silvercrest will meet and exceed the performance, reliability and value demands of corporate aircraft operators as they transition to new-generation aircraft in the next decade and beyond", said François Planaud, general manager, commercial aircraft engines. “Our goal is to provide a customer experience second to none for business jet operators.”

Snecma has also been collecting extensive customer input, fully reflecting the essential role of support in the overall customer experience. For instance, a quantitative survey was commissioned by Snecma earlier this year to establish baseline operator requirements, desires and perceptions. Snecma has also tapped into the experience and know-how of respected industry icons and service providers around the world.

“We have worked with our future customers from the outset of the Silvercrest program to define engine specifications,” noted François Planaud. “Meeting all customer expectations is key to Snecma. Each operation is different, each operator has its own specific needs, and we are here to support them. You can count on it.”

***

Snecma, a SAFRAN group company, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of aircraft and space engines, with a wide range of propulsion systems on offer. The company designs and builds commercial aircraft engines that are powerful, reliable, economical and environmentally friendly, along with military aircraft engines that have always delivered world-class performance. Snecma also develops and produces propulsion systems and equipment for launch vehicles and satellites. CFM56 engines are produced and marketed by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between General Electric and Snecma.

The Silvercrest engine family, developing 9,500 to 12,000 lb of thrust, is intended for large to super large business jets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.snecma.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.10.2008, Sagem Avionics Inc
FAA awards Sagem Avionics with STC for Integrated Cockpit Display System Installation on Commander 690


Orlando, FL - October 7, 2008

Sagem Avionics, Inc. (SAFRAN Group) is proud to announce the receipt of a Supplemental Type Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration for installation of the Sagem Avionics ICDS glass cockpit avionics suite in the Commander 690 turboprop aircraft.

The Sagem Avionics ICDS Commander 690 series multifunction display suite is an intuitive and particularly user-friendly system that considerably reduces the pilot’s workload and increases situational awareness and safety.

Configurable with two, three or four 10-inch color AMLCDs (Active Matrix Liquid Crystal Display), the Sagem Avionics suite provides Primary Flight Instruments, engine instruments, moving maps, CAS advisories, a Terrain Obstacle Proximity System (TOPS), a warning/caution system, and integrates with radars and a Traffic Advisory System (TAS).

Furthermore, it provides the aircraft operator with the capability to add a wide range of other avionics, such as an Enhanced Vision System (EVS) (with equipment such as an L-3 IRIS camera), lightning detection (with an L-3 WX-500 sensor), weather radar or radios, all without major costly upgrades to the system.

The combination of these features results in better dispatchability, better reliability, lower operating costs and safer operation. It also allows aircraft operators to readily update to new mandates and/or mission needs without major costs. As a result, overall resaleability is substantially improved.

The initial installation of the Sagem Avionics ICDS was performed by Alternative Aviation in Waterford, Michigan. The Commander 690 is on display at the National Business Aviation Association national convention this week in Orlando, Florida.

Today, there are more than 600 Commander 690-type aircraft in operation that could stand to benefit from a modernization with Sagem Avionics’ ICDS glass cockpit suite in line with this new STC.

***

About Sagem Avionics, Inc.
Sagem Avionics Inc. a Delaware incorporated company with Headquarters in Dallas, Texas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sagem Défense Sécurité, a SAFRAN Group company. Sagem Avionics, Inc. provides high quality avionics products and services to Part 23, 25, 27, and 29 aircraft and helicopters. These include technical support, MRO services, and marketing and sales of SFIM, ARNAV, AVIAC and SAGEM commercial aerospace products including integrated cockpit display systems, helicopter autopilot systems, flight control components, aircraft condition and monitoring systems and flight operations quality assurance software.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagemavionics.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.10.2008, Sagem Avionics Inc
JetDirect Aviation Inc. and Sagem Avionics establish a C-FOQA program


Orlando, FL - October 7, 2008

Sagem Avionics, Inc. (SAFRAN Group) of Grand Prairie, Texas, and JetDirect Aviation Inc. of Burlingame, California, announced today that they are combining efforts to establish an industry leading Corporate Flight Operational Quality Assurance (C-FOQA) program.

Sagem Avionics and JetDirect intend to push the limits of traditional FOQA programs to bring true risk reduction to corporate aviation.

Sagem Avionics’ AGS is the worldwide FOQA tool of choice for airline operations and is in use as the first FAA “Part 135”-approved FOQA program. Celebrating its 17th year, the Sagem AGS has been the preeminent Flight Data Analysis Software package worldwide with over 300 users.

Sagem Avionics was chosen by JetDirect for their experience and ability to customize existing FOQA software tools to fit corporate aircraft operators whose needs are different than traditional airlines. “We see the value in offering our owners flight data monitoring to more efficiently and effectively operate corporate aircraft”, said Bob Marinace, JetDirect Aviation COO. “Sagem’s software is flexible and easy to use, which will allow us to monitor events that are important to safety and operations for JetDirect”, added Sheryle Milligan, Vice President Safety, Security & Regulatory Compliance. “Security is critical to us and to our owners, and Sagem provides the best FOQA data security on the market today.”

“Corporate aircraft flight data analysis will greatly enhance the safety and performance of flight departments, as it has been proven in the airline industry,” said Laurent Bloch, Director of Sales and Marketing, Sagem Avionics.

For more information on the C-FOQA program, please visit JetDirect at booth # 2926 and Sagem Avionics at booth # 4287.

***

About Sagem Avionics, Inc.
Sagem Avionics Inc. a Delaware incorporated company with Headquarters in Dallas, Texas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sagem Défense Sécurité, a SAFRAN Group company. Sagem Avionics, Inc. provides high quality avionics products and services to Part 23, 25, 27, and 29 aircraft and helicopters. These include technical support, MRO services, and marketing and sales of SFIM, ARNAV, AVIAC and SAGEM commercial aerospace products including integrated cockpit display systems, helicopter autopilot systems, flight control components, aircraft condition and monitoring systems and flight operations quality assurance software.

About JetDirect Aviation, Inc.
JetDirect Aviation, Inc. ("JetDirect") is an FAR Part 135 air carrier and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of JetDirect Aviation Holdings, LLC. JetDirect Aviation Holdings LLC is a leading national provider of private aviation services for clients across the country. Investors include CD Ventures, ABS Capital Partners, AIG, Argosy Capital, Brantley Partners and HSBC.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagemavionics.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

15.10.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN to acquire Motorola’s biometrics business


Paris and Schaumburg, IL - Oct 15, 2008

SAFRAN through Sagem Sécurité, its wholly owned subsidiary and a world leader in ID solutions based on biometrics, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the biometric business unit within Motorola Inc. (NYSE: MOT), which includes its Printrak trademark. The acquisition has been approved by Motorola and SAFRAN.

Motorola’s biometric business unit, headquartered in Anaheim, California, USA, designs, develops, integrates and maintains automated fingerprint identification systems (“AFIS”) for law enforcement, civil and commercial customers around the world. The firm serves national, state, county and municipal agencies internationally, and provides integration solutions and systems for more than 300 customers in 40 countries in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Jean-Paul Herteman, CEO of SAFRAN said, “This acquisition enables Sagem Sécurité to strengthen its position in the US market for homeland security where it is already committed to offer world-class identification solutions to government, state and local markets. This acquisition is a continuation of SAFRAN’s long history of investing in the US. It is also an important step in our plan to improve our product offering, expand production in the US, and reduce costs."

Jean-Paul Jainsky, CEO of Sagem Sécurité added, "Through this acquisition, Sagem Sécurité, its existing customers, and Motorola’s existing biometrics customers are expected to benefit from increased efficiencies and customer responsiveness from the merger of the two businesses.”

“Biometrics is a very dynamic business that we believe requires companies to specialize in the technology,” said Gene Delaney, president, Government & Public Safety, Motorola. “To best serve our customers and employees, Motorola made a judgment that we need to concentrate and lead in our area of strength – delivering best-in-class mission critical communications solutions for government, public safety and commercial customers.”

The transaction is targeted to close first quarter of 2009 at the latest and is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

***

SAFRAN, with approximately $17 billion in revenue in 2007, is an international high-technology group. SAFRAN has been operating in the U.S. for 30 years and is a world leader in a number of industrial segments, including aircraft engines through the 34-year CFM International Joint Venture with General Electric, and also supplies aircraft components used on many U.S. military platforms as well as civil aviation customers. Its largest U.S. customer is Boeing and it has significant relationships with other U.S. aerospace companies. SAFRAN operates in aerospace propulsion, aircraft equipment, defense and security.

Products incorporating SAFRAN’s technology have been used for over 20 years by the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard and NASA. Representative products today include KC-135R Stratotanker C-17 Globemaster, F/A-18, F-16, F-22, V-22 and C-130. SAFRAN is party to over 100 technical assistance agreements (TAAs) and manufacturing licence agreements (MLAs), has 22 empowered corporate officials dedicated to export control and regulations and is committed to full compliance to such requirements and implements internal policies and procedures to this end.
SAFRAN has more than 57,000 employees in over 30 countries, including 3,500 employees in the U.S. with facilities and offices in 42 locations across 19 states.

Sagem Sécurité is one of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated solutions are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Sagem Sécurité is a fast growing company with an annual growth over 15 % in the last two years.
Sagem Sécurité is already present in the US through Sagem Morpho, Inc. which develops and sells secure identification systems incorporating various biometric technologies including fingerprint, palm prints, iris and facial recognition either through OEM relationships with major U.S. integrators such as Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin, or through its own direct relationships with customers. SMI’s U.S. customers for these systems include both law enforcement and civil agencies such as New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, Missouri State Highway Patrol, New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, New York Police Department Central Records Division, FBI Latent Laboratory, FBI Criminal Justice Information Services, U.S. Army Crime Lab).

Sagem Sécurité has 4,000 employees in over 24 countries and annual revenues exceeding $ 1 billion in 2007.

Motorola is known around the world for innovation in communications. The company develops technologies, products and services that make mobile experiences possible. Our portfolio includes communications infrastructure, enterprise mobility solutions, digital set-tops, cable modems, mobile devices and Bluetooth accessories. Motorola is committed to delivering next generation communication solutions to people, businesses and governments. A Fortune 100 company with global presence and impact, Motorola had sales of US $36.6 billion in 2007.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release, including the expected timetable for completing the proposed transaction, future financial and operating results, benefits and synergies of the transaction, future opportunities and offerings for the combined company and products, any other statements regarding Motorola’s or Sagem Sécurité’s future expectations, beliefs, goals or prospects, and any statements that are not statements of historical facts might be considered forward-looking statements. While these forward-looking statements represent managements’ current judgment of future events, they are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements, include: (i) the parties’ ability to consummate the transaction; (ii) the conditions to the completion of the transaction may not be satisfied, or the regulatory approvals required for the transaction may not be obtained on the terms expected or on the anticipated schedule; (iii) the possibility that the parties may be unable to achieve expected synergies and operating efficiencies within expected time-frames or at all; (iv) Sagem Sécurité’s ability to successfully integrate Motorola’s biometric operations into those of Sagem Sécurité and the possibility that such integration may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected; (v) revenues following the transaction may be lower than expected; (vi) operating costs, customer loss and business disruption (including, without limitation, difficulties in maintaining relationships with employees, customers, clients or suppliers) may be greater than expected following the transaction; (vii) the retention of certain key employees within Motorola’s biometrics unit; (viii) the inability to protect either party’s intellectual property rights may weaken its competitive position; (ix) the general outlook for the economy and the biometrics industry; (x) other factors, including factors described in Motorola’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 and its subsequent reports filed with the SEC. Motorola and Sagem Sécurité assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement in this press release, and such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.sagem-securite.com | www.motorola.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.10.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN signs partnership agreement with ISAE aerospace engineering school


Paris, October 16, 2008 – The SAFRAN Group of France signed an initial partnership agreement with the aerospace engineering school ISAE (Institut Supérieur de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace) on October 2 in Toulouse. This framework agreement meets the two partners’ shared objectives: to train high-level engineers, foster innovation and give students top-flight career opportunities in innovative, high-value-added sectors.

The first general partnership agreement between SAFRAN and ISAE formalizes and enriches the long-standing close relations between the Group and the two prestigious schools that merged to form ISAE, SUPAÉRO and ENSICA.

For SAFRAN, this accord provides an opportunity to support students in their career development, to introduce them to the corporate culture, and to reaffirm its commitment to the school’s values and its educational and research missions.

For ISAE, this partnership underscores its close, favored relationship with SAFRAN. It also reflects ISAE’s ability to support industry at both the national and international level, to provide optimized solutions for both education and continuous professional training, and to contribute to its industrial partners’ competitiveness and innovation capabilities.

The partnership between SAFRAN and ISAE mainly covers the following areas:

  • SAFRAN’s association with the school’s major objectives.
  • Promoting the SAFRAN Group and its companies at the school and with its students.
  • Helping prepare students for their entry in the workplace, and developing their international exposure.
  • SAFRAN’s contribution to teaching and research at ISAE.

The partnership agreement was signed on the ISAE campus during a special day-long SAFRAN/ISAE forum, allowing nearly 200 students to meet 25 representatives of SAFRAN.

****

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris. For many years, SAFRAN has been developing partnerships with engineering schools.

ISAE (Institut Supérieur de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace)
On October 1, 2007, the two engineering schools SUPAÉRO and ENSICA merged to form a single institute of higher education and research specialized in aerospace engineering: ISAE (Institut Supérieur de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace) Drawing on the legacy of its founding partners, and due to its unique role in European higher education, ISAE offers unrivaled high-level training in aeronautical and space engineering.

ISAE at a glance: two graduate programs, SUPAÉRO and ENSICA; 20 specialized master’s programs, including three in China; nine research master’s; six doctoral-level faculties; 1,500 students; 149 possibilities for international collaboration; 50 academic and research partnerships.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.isae.fr

PRESS RELEASE

16.10.2008, Teuchos;Sagem Sécurité
H.M. Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, inaugurates new headquarters of SAFRAN companies Teuchos and Sagem Sécurité in Casablanca


Casablanca, October 16, 2008

The new Moroccan site for Teuchos Maroc and Sagem Sécurité Maroc (both subsidiaries of SAFRAN), located in Sidi Maarouf on the outskirts of Casablanca, was officially inaugurated today by His Majesty Mohammed VI, King of Morocco.

During the inauguration ceremony, SAFRAN Senior Executive Vice President Emeric d’Arcimoles emphasized the Group’s confidence in Morocco’s economy, and in its competitive advantages in fostering the growth of the aviation and security industries.

Covering a surface area of 2.5 hectares (about 6 acres), the site is dedicated to aeronautical engineering and the development of security systems, and includes more than 3,500 square meters of floorspace.

The site offers a harmonious blend of traditional Moroccan architecture and modern facilities, giving employees of Teuchos Maroc and Sagem Sécurité Maroc a privileged working environment which is both functional and ergonomically designed. It will continue to develop, offering highly appreciated skills in structural calculations, the design of mechanical parts and the definition of digital security solutions.

“Today we have 240 design engineers and technicians, a figure which could eventually rise to 600,” said Gérard Le Page, Chairman and CEO of Teuchos.

“For Sagem Sécurité, this high-tech platform is one of the keys to our development, since it will support the growth of our business for digital identification solutions in Morocco and the rest of the world,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité.

***

Teuchos is an international engineering and consulting company specialized in transport applications. It employs 1,800 engineers and technicians and has operations in France, Spain, Germany, India and Morocco. Teuchos plays a role in large-scale projects, and helps develop systems and equipment for major companies in the aerospace, defense and automotive sectors.

Sagem Sécurité is one of the world’s leading suppliers of identification systems. It focuses on applications involving personal rights and flow management, in particular biometric-based systems, a market in which it is the world leader, along with secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed around the world, and help enhance transportation safety, data security, personal safety and national security. Sagem Sécurité operates worldwide.

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.teuchos.com | www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

06.10.2008, Microturbo
Microturbo’s e-APU program for the business aircraft market is ready to run on the test bed


Orlando – October 6, 2008

Microturbo (Safran Group Company) announces at the 61st annual Convention of the NBAA (National Business Aviation Association) in Orlando, Florida, that development is on schedule for its e-APU program, the new auxiliary power unit that provides an innovative solution to meet the growing requirements of the business jet market in terms of electrical demands, reliability and environmental standards. The e-APU’s first run on test bed has therefore been confirmed for the end of this year.

The e-APU program has successfully passed the different development milestones defined when the project was launched at the end of 2006. The general architecture of this new auxiliary power unit was frozen at the preliminary design review held at the end of 2007.
The core engine was validated at the critical design review last June, followed in July by the gearbox which has been developed by Triumph Gear Systems, Microturbo’s Utah-based partner and subsidiary of the Triumph Group Inc. Completion of these latest phases means that the first detailed drawings of this initial version have now been frozen, and production of the first parts has been launched.
The first run on test bed will be as planned, in December 2008. Final certification of the complete e-APU is planned three years later.

The development tests scheduled in 2009 will be focused on the ability of the e-APU to start up at 41,000 feet and operate to a maximum altitude of 51,000 feet, in order to meet current and future demands of new business jets with their increasing electrical needs and forthcoming “all-electric” characteristics. This first version is equipped with a dual-pad gearbox and features a 28 VDC starter-generator delivering 15 kWe of electrical power, plus a 115 VAC / 400 Hz alternator unit delivering 45 kWe of electrical power, prefiguring the versatility of the end product that will be available to customers.

«At the forefront of innovation, this initial e-APU configuration is the result of close cooperation between all the business jet manufacturers with which Microturbo sustains permanent ties to ensure that future requirements are fully understood, supported and appropriately defined», stated Jean-Baptiste Jarin, Microturbo sales director.

***

Microturbo, a SAFRAN Group company and subsidiary of Turbomeca, is specialized in the design, development and production of low power gas turbine systems. Its activity focuses on three product lines: auxiliary power units, turbojet engines for missiles and target drones, and starting systems.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com | www.microturbo.com

PRESS RELEASE

21.10.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité delivers 26,400 new terminals to La Française des Jeux


Paris, October 21, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) announces that it has been chosen by La Française des Jeux, the French lottery operator, to supply and maintain 26,400 ticket checkers (TC3 terminals). This success, which follows an intensive qualification phase, has given Sagem Sécurité world leadership in lottery ticket checkers.

The innovative electronic design of the TC3 ticket checker combines ergonomics, performance, security and exceptional connectivity. Its major advantage is high reliability coupled with total independence for all players, since they can quickly check their tickets by themselves. Thanks to these characteristics, the TC3 fully meets the lotteries’ commitments in terms of transparency and security, while giving retailers and players access to additional services.

“We are very honored to have earned this mark of trust from La Française des Jeux,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “The TC3 gives them all the benefits of our advanced technology and recognized expertise. The Ticket Checker is a perfect solution for lotteries anywhere in the world who want to offer a wider range of services to all players.”

Each sales outlet in France will now be fitted with the TC3, allowing La Française des Jeux to establish the world’s largest network of ticket checkers.

***

About Sagem Sécurité

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.10.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité selects Thales Minie D night vision binoculars for the FELIN program headgear


Saint-Héand, October 17, 2008

For the visit of Hervé Morin, French Minister of Defense, on the Thales Angénieux site, the two companies announced that Sagem Défense Sécurité, prime contractor of the FELIN program, has selected the Minie D night vision binoculars made by Thales for the headgear of French Land Forces infantrymen.

Light and compact, the Minie D night vision binoculars made by Thales offer excellent night vision performances. They provide a 20% improvement in optical performance over current gear, satisfying the high requirements of the FELIN program.

The Minie D connects to infantryman systems via an electronic box made by Sagem Défense Sécurité, enabling remote night firing.

With its light-weight, optical quality and the night vision capability, it greatly enhances fighter security in asymmetric night combat.

"Obviously, we are very proud to join the FELIN program," explained Serge Adrian, Director of the Optronics product line, Thales Land and Joint Systems. "Alongside Sagem Défense Sécurité, Thales thus contributes to one of the most emblematic soldier equipment programs."

"The choice of the Thales Minie D for the FELIN system is yet another illustration of the long-standing cooperation between our two companies in defense optronics," underlined Jean-François Coutris, Executive Vice President , Chief operating officer; Sagem Optronics and Defense Division at Sagem Défense Sécurité.

FELIN* is the French land forces Soldier Modernization Program. The DGA (French Procurement Agency) chose Sagem Défense Sécurité to be the program’s prime contractor following on from a call for tenders. A modular and integrated system, FELIN provides infantrymen with the new protection, observation, communication, command, coordination and weapons use capabilities required for present-day asymmetric conflict.

* FELIN: Fantassin à Equipements et Liaisons INtégrés, or Integrated Equipment and Communications Infantryman

****

About Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics, critical electronics and software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US. For more information: www.sagem-ds.com

About Thales
Thales is a leading international electronics and systems group, addressing defense, aerospace and security markets worldwide. Thales’ leading-edge technology is supported by 22,000 R&D engineers who offer a capability unmatched in Europe to develop and deploy field-proven mission-critical information systems. To this end, the group’s civil and military businesses develop in parallel and share a common base of technologies to serve a single objective: the security of people, property and nations. The group builds its growth on its unique multi-domestic strategy based on trusted partnerships with national customers and market players, while leveraging its global expertise to support local technology and industrial development. Thales employs 68,000 people in 50 countries with 2007 revenues of €12.3 billion.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

PRESS RELEASE

28.10.2008, Messier-Dowty
Hélène Moreau-Leroy appointed Vice-President, Airbus and European Programs Business Unit


Vélizy, France – 28 October, 2008: Messier-Dowty International has appointed Hélène Moreau-Leroy as vice-president, Airbus and European Programs Business Unit.

Hélène Moreau-Leroy joined the Purchasing Department of the SAFRAN Group in 2003 where she managed raw materials forgings and IS outsourcing. In 2005, she took a new role within Messier-Dowty as International Supply Chain development Manager. Prior to joining the SAFRAN Group, she held various management positions such as purchasing and industrial plants Manager within several groups, including Thomson and Alstom Corporate.

Hélène Moreau-Leroy holds an engineering degree from France’s INSA Lyon, an MBA from the University of New England (Australia) and is an APICS-certified Supply Chain professional.

***

Messier-Dowty, a SAFRAN group company, is the world leader in the design, development, manufacture and support of landing gear systems. Messier-Dowty landing gear are in service on more than 19,500 aircraft making over 35,000 landings every day. The company supplies 33 airframe manufacturers and supports 2,000 operators of large commercial aircraft, regional and business aircraft, military aircraft and helicopters. Messier-Dowty is also the majority shareholder of the worldwide MRO network, Messier Services. Messier-Dowty and Messier Services together have 4,300 employees across sites in Europe, North America and Asia, and posted consolidated sales of 826 million euros in 2007.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.messier-dowty.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

28.10.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité Vampir NG infrared search & track system chosen for Australia’s new LHD amphibious assault ships


Euronaval Exhibition, Le Bourget, October 28, 2008.

Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) has won a contract from BAE Systems Australia, in an international call for tenders, to supply VAMPIR NG* infrared surveillance systems for the Royal Australian Navy’s future Canberra class LHD (Landing Helicopter Deck) amphibious assault ships.

Vampir NG is a new-generation infrared search and track (IRST) system. Designed to cope with both symmetrical and asymmetrical threats, at sea and along coastlines, it calls on state-of-the-art image processing technology, and deploys third-generation gyrostabilized infrared sensors for maximum efficiency.

Against a severe competition, the choice of the Australian Navy has been determined by the high level of preformances of VAMPIR NG, its detection and image processing capability along with its high level of integration.

Sagem Défense Sécurité’s VAMPIR NG is integrated in the ship’s own combat system. Offering a high-resolution panoramic image, it provides surveillance and warning functions to contribute to the ship’s self-defense capabilities. It can also be used as a helicopter landing aid, and to help control the movements of landing craft.

The system’s high performance and excellent cost efficiency ratio were decisive factors in the Australian Navy choice, in particular its long detection range and its quick acquisition capability for all types of threats, from sea sea-skimming missiles to small high speed craft.

This latest contract follows an earlier Royal Australian Navy contract won by Sagem Défense Sécurité in 2005 to supply VAMPIR NG systems for Anzac class frigates.

* Veille Air-Mer Panoramique Infrarouge Nouvelle Génération – New Generation Infrared Panoramic Air-Sea Surveillance.

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

03.11.2008, Microturbo
Powered by Microturbo’s TR 60-5 turbojet engine, Saab’s latest generation anti-ship missile, the RBS15 Mk3, has successfully completed its final qualification launch


Toulouse - November 3rd, 2008

Microturbo (a SAFRAN Group company and subsidiary of Turbomeca), specialist in turbojet engines for tactical missiles, powers Saab’s latest generation RBS15 Mk3 missile with its TR 60-5 turbojet engine; the qualification launch program of this missile has just been successfully completed. The TR 60-5 turbojet engine is one of the most versatile in Microturbo’s range.

October 8th, Saab Bofors Dynamics and Dielh BGT Defense successfully completed the final tests to check the missile system as a functional entity. This successful long-range firing of the anti-ship missile is the final stage of an extensive qualification launch program which began in 2006. Developed by Microturbo, the TR 60-5 turbojet engine, with its new variable thrust capability, enabled the strike velocity of the missile to be automatically adapted at a predefined moment, whereas the terminal manoeuvres were sustained using maximum thrust and speed. The TR 60-5 is an optimized version of the TR 60 concept, characterised by its three-stage axial compressor. The TR 60 5 is produced on a large scale for the RBS15 Mk3 application, and there are other versions optimized for target drones and unmanned aircraft.

***

Microturbo, a SAFRAN Group company and subsidiary of Turbomeca, is specialized in the design, development and production of low power gas turbine systems. Its activity focuses on three product lines: auxiliary power units, turbojet engines for missiles and target drones, and starting systems.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.microturbo.com

PRESS RELEASE

04.11.2008, SAFRAN
French citizen receives first biometric passport, thanks to a system designed by SAFRAN and Atos Origin for ANTS*


Paris, November 4, 2008

The first biometric passport was delivered to a French citizen on October 31 at the city hall in Chantilly (near Paris) by Michèle Alliot-Marie, French Minister of the Interior. Eric Woerth, French Minister of the Budget and mayor of Chantilly, was also present for the event.

A European law passed in 2006 stipulates that all passports issued starting in June 2009 must include the bearer’s fingerprint and a photo, directly and securely entered in compliance with international standards.

SAFRAN subsidiary Sagem Sécurité developed the secure data collection and passport delivery station, which it is delivering to city halls in France, as well as foreign consulates. The Atos Origin group, project prime contractor, is in charge of implementing all passport delivery systems in France. In particular, Atos Origin is in charge of the change management and training of over 13,000 agents.

Commenting on this milestone, SAFRAN CEO Jean-Paul Herteman said: “Just four months after Sagem Sécurité and Atos Origin won the contract for secure electronic documents, we have provided concrete proof of our ability to deliver a very high security solution under tight deadlines to our customer, the French National Agency for Secure Documents (ANTS).”

Philippe Germond, Chairman of Atos Origin, pleased with the success of this first phase said: “As prime contractor for this strategic project, the Atos Origin group is capitalizing on its comprehensive portfolio of skills and capabilities to ensure the successful deployment of this ambitious biometric passport program, based on Sagem Sécurité’s advanced technologies.”

* French National Agency for Secure Documents

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

Atos Origin is an international information technology services company. Its business is turning client vision into results through the application of consulting, systems integration and managed operations. The company’s annual revenues are EUR 5.8 billion and it employs over 50,000 people in 40 countries. Atos Origin is the Worldwide Information Technology Partner for the Olympic Games and has a client base of international blue-chip companies across all sectors. Atos Origin is quoted on the Paris Eurolist Market and trades as Atos Origin, Atos Worldline and Atos Consulting.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com - www.atosorigin.com - www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

06.11.2008, CFM International
CFM56-7B Receives Joint FAA / EASA Certification for P-8A Poseidon


EVENDALE, Ohio — November 6, 2008

CFM International’s advanced CFM56-7B27A/3 engine model has been jointly certified by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and the European Aviation Safety Agency for the U.S. Navy’s P-8A Poseidon, paving the way for flight tests in 2009 and initial operational capability in 2013. The Navy plans to purchase 108 P-8As to replace its fleet of P-3C aircraft.

CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM is part of the Boeing-led P-8A team that also includes Spirit AeroSystems, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, NAVAIR and GE Aviation.

The P-8A Poseidon is a derivative of the Next-Generation 737-800, also powered by the CFM56-7B family of engines, with increased gross weight capability. The aircraft will provide increased capability in long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Other models of the CFM56-7B engine that will power the P-8A, also power the Boeing 737 AEW&C and C-40 aircraft. Each engine is rated at 27,300 pounds (121 kN) takeoff thrust and will meet the Poseidon’s demanding electrical output requirements to support flight deck and mission system operations.

The CFM56-7B family is one of the world’s most reliable engines. More than 5,800 engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet has logged more than 86 million flight hours while maintaining an industry-leading 0.002 in-flight shutdown rate per 1,000 flight hours. This rate translates to one event every 500,000 flight hours.

Prior to certification, CFM completed an extensive series of engineering tests on the CFM56-7B engine earlier in 2008 to evaluate the its capabilities in extreme weather conditions. One engine successfully completed extensive icing tests at a special facility near Montreal (Quebec), Canada, to evaluate the CFM56-7B engine’s ability to meet the stringent icing requirements established by the Navy for this aircraft, including subjecting the engine to extreme conditions over an extended time period.

Another engine was subjected to the other temperature extreme. In a dedicated test cell at Snecma facilities in Villaroche, France, the engine successfully completed a series of thermal tests that included an entire engine build-up and series of tests actually included a simulation of a specific P-8A mission.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

12.11.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité’s latest-generation APFIS selected by Kenya Police


Paris, November 12, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) announced today that it has been chosen by the Kenya Police, following an international call for tenders, to supply, deploy and maintain an automated palm and fingerprint identification system (APFIS). This latest-generation system will be deployed by the Criminal Investigation Department in Nairobi.

Designed to fight criminality throughout Kenya, the latest-generation APFIS features biometric comparison algorithms that were top ranked for precision and interoperability by the National Institute of Standards and Technologies (NIST) in the United States. The Kenya Police thus deploys cutting-edge technologies for criminal identification and crime-fighting.

“The Kenya Police is pioneering the use of advanced technologies to identify wanted persons,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “Our latest-generation APFIS will give them one of the largest digital fingerprint databases in eastern Africa, and will allow them to work in liaison with other police forces in Africa and throughout the world. This is a first for the Kenyan police, and consolidates their position as the benchmark police force in Africa.”

The technology offered by Sagem Sécurité, already used by the FBI and Interpol, played a decisive role in the Kenyan police’s choice. With this selection, Sagem Sécurité continues to confirm its world leadership in biometric identification systems, already in service in more than 70 countries around the world.

***

About Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

13.11.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN participates in third “Women’s Success Stories” forum


Paris, November 13, 2008 – The SAFRAN Group, a partner in the French association “Elles bougent” (“Women on the move”) took part in the third major “Réussir au féminin” (“Women’s Success Stories”) forum today at the Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers engineering school in Paris.

“Elles bougent” is an association of women engineers and engineering students. Its mission is to help young women discover their vocation in the field of engineering, whether in the aerospace, automobile, rail or other industry.

Today’s forum, based on a series of panel discussions, focuses on innovative engineering professions, as well as showcasing the broad diversity of career paths possible in this field.

SAFRAN’s membership in the “Elles bougent” association clearly reflects the Group’s commitment to supporting gender equality in hiring for all job categories, especially management-level personnel. To date this year, some 25% of new management hires have been women, and this percentage should increase further in 2009.

“Women still hold a delicate position in industry,” noted Martine Moyer, an engineer at Group subsidiary Sagem Sécurité and sponsor of the association. “The increased percentage of women at university level has not really changed the attitude of men concerning women’s role in the work environment. The association ‘Elles bougent’, by helping to inspire more women to take up this challenge, and to play an increasingly active role corporate life, should help reduce the gender gap over time, and eventually eliminate it entirely.”

****

SAFRAN est un groupe international de haute technologie centré sur la propulsion aéronautique et spatiale, les équipements aéronautiques et la défense sécurité. Au 31 décembre 2007, le Groupe employait plus de 63 000 personnes dans plus de 30 pays, pour un chiffre d’affaires de 12 milliards d’euros. Composé de nombreuses sociétés aux marques prestigieuses, le groupe SAFRAN occupe, seul ou en partenariat, des positions de premier plan mondial ou européen sur ses marchés. SAFRAN est une société cotée sur NYSE Euronext Paris et fait partie des indices SBF 120 et Euronext 100.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.11.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité introduces ELITE, a cutting-edge gaming terminal


Paris, November 14, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) unveiled its latest gaming terminal, ELITE, in a world premiere at the World Lottery Association (WLA) conference and trade show in Rhodes from October 19 to 24, 2008.

The ELITE terminal is designed to guarantee maximum autonomy and transparency throughout the whole betting process, for players and retailers alike. It features an innovative dual entry optical reading zone, so that the player and the retailer can simultaneously follow the different steps in the betting and payout processes, in real time. ELITE also incorporates all functions needed for the use of contactless cards, to provide additional services to players.

Both lottery organizations and manufacturers expressed keen interest in the ELITE terminal during the WLA trade show. The introduction of ELITE further demonstrates Sagem Sécurité’s ability to deliver innovative solutions that meet lottery requirements around the world. With more than 180,000 gaming terminals in service worldwide, Sagem Sécurité confirms its position as a leading global player.

***

About Sagem Sécurité

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

14.11.2008, SAFRAN
SAFRAN expose ses innovations technologiques à La Ville Européenne des Sciences (French only)


Paris, le 14 novembre 2008

Organisée par le Ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur et de la Recherche, à l’occasion de la Présidence Française de l’Union Européenne, la Ville Européenne des Sciences se tient au Grand Palais du 14 au 16 novembre 2008.

SAFRAN, groupe international de haute technologie, spécialisé dans l’aéronautique, la défense et la sécurité consacre un investissement très important de son chiffre d’affaires à la Recherche et Technologie. C’est donc très naturellement que le Groupe s’associe à cette exposition.

Partie prenante dans de nombreuses coopérations en recherche, SAFRAN trouve ici l’occasion de présenter à un large public plusieurs de ses innovations technologiques. Des ingénieurs du Groupe se tiendront à sa disposition pour le renseigner et lui offrir l’opportunité de discuter des programmes de recherche autour des moteurs d’avions du futur, plus silencieux, moins gourmands en kérosène et plus respectueux de l’environnement.

L’objectif de l’exposition est de donner au public une vision de la recherche européenne proche des préoccupations de chacun. Soixante-dix « espaces-projets » aménagés dans les rues de cette ville européenne des sciences présentent de nombreux travaux de recherche, dans des domaines très variés.

Cette manifestation est le premier jalon de la Fête de la Science qui aura lieu à travers toute la France du 17 au 23 novembre 2008.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.11.2008, Sagem Sécurité
Sagem Sécurité introduces Morpho RapID 1100 for the first time in Qatar


Paris, November 17, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) announces that it will officially present Morpho RapID 1100 in Qatar, during Milipol Qatar exhibition from 17 to 19 November 2008. Designed for mobile police forces and border police, these terminals will provide real-time identification of criminals based on fingerprint and facial recognition.

The new terminal’s graphics interface and connectivity with most current communications networks means that police forces will have real-time access to highly accurate information, allowing them to respond to all demands. Police forces will be able to increase their presence in the field and provide the appropriate solution to any situation, immediately.

“Morpho RapID 1100 is the result of a joint effort by Sagem Sécurité and Psion Teklogix, the leader in communicating mobile terminals, working in conjunction with police forces,” said Jean-Paul Jainsky, Chairman and CEO of Sagem Sécurité. “It combines state-of-the-art technologies in biometrics, communications and ergonomic design, all in a single device.”

Based on recognized expertise in real-time identification technologies, the Morpho RapID 1100 provides an innovative solution to meet the growing needs of today’s mobile police forces. Sagem Sécurité now has some 400,000 biometric terminals deployed worldwide, confirming its position as the world leader in biometric identification systems.

***

About Sagem Sécurité

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Through the SAFRAN Group, Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com | www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

17.11.2008, CFM International
British Airways Orders 20 CFM56-3 Advanced Upgrade Kits


EVENDALE, Ohio — November 17, 2008

British Airways has placed an order 20 CFM56-3 Advanced Upgrades kits for its 737 Classic fleet. The order is valued at approximately $33 million at list price, and the kits begin delivery early next year. The order could potentially encompass as many as 44 CFM56-3 engines.

CFM56-3 engines are a product of CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. Approximately 4,500 CFM56-3 engines in service worldwide; nearly one quarter of those engines have been upgraded.

"We are pleased to be incorporating the CFM56-3 Advanced Upgrade into our 737 fleet,” said Willie Walsh, chief executive officer of British Airways. “This engine has served British Airways well in the past, and the upgrade has already proven its value in service around the world. The lower fuel consumption will have an immediate positive impact on our operating economics while helping us control our carbon footprint; both of which are critical in today’s environment.”

A fully upgraded 10-aircraft fleet will save British Airways approximately 280,000 gallons of fuel per year. That equates to approximately a $750,000 savings at $2.60 per gallon of fuel. The add-on effect of the lower fuel consumption will be that this same fleet will emit 2,700 fewer tons of carbon emissions each year.

The Advanced Upgrade kit features three-dimensional high-pressure compressor (HPC) aerodynamics (3-D aero) and new high-pressure turbine hardware. The upgrade is installed during normal overhaul and provides significant benefits, including: up to a 1.6 percent improvement in specific fuel consumption (which directly impacts fuel burn), as well as up to 25 degrees additional exhaust gas temperature (EGT) margin, which reduces maintenance costs through longer on-wing life.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

20.11.2008, Messier-Bugatti
Messier-Bugatti signs first Global Care™ contract with Singapore Airlines for by-the-hour A380 support services


Vélizy, November 20th, 2008

Singapore Airlines (SIA), the launch customer for the A380, has awarded Messier-Bugatti (SAFRAN Group) a by-the-hour support contract. Messier-Bugatti will provide maintenance and other support services for its systems and equipment on Singapore Airlines’ entire A380 fleet. SIA has already taken delivery of six A380s, and will eventually deploy a fleet of 19. This contract takes effect on December 1, and covers a period of 14 years. It is valued at several dozen million dollars.

For Messier-Bugatti, this is the first by-the-hour Global Care™ contract concerning its A380 systems. This type of contract guarantees the dispatch reliability of Messier-Bugatti equipment, in exchange for a fixed rate per hour of flight. By-the-hour contracts offer major advantages for airlines, allowing them to better plan their expenses, stretch these expenses over time, and reduce maintenance costs. For Messier-Bugatti, this type of contract guarantees a steady income stream from maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services.

Messier-Bugatti supplies four complete systems on the Airbus A380, comprising over 120 different parts numbers and 300 components and subassemblies: the braking system, the steering system, monitoring systems (tire pressure, brake temperature and hydraulic pressure), and the hydraulic filtration system.

***

Messier-Bugatti, part of the SAFRAN Group, is a world leader in advanced braking. Wheels and carbon brakes by Messier-Bugatti are used on more than 3,400 aircraft, deployed by 250 airlines and 20 air forces around the world. Messier-Bugatti also supports its products through a global service network. As a specialist in systems engineering and integration, Messier-Bugatti also delivers excellence and innovative solutions in braking, steering, landing and monitoring (brakes, tires, landing gears) systems, with more than 9,000 aircraft equipped. Messier-Bugatti has worked with Airbus for more than 30 years, and is also a supplier to Boeing, ATR, Dassault and Bombardier. With a global workforce of 1,200 employees mainly based in France, the United States and Singapore, Messier-Bugatti has annual sales of 420 million euros and invests some 15% of its revenues in R&D. Messier-Bugatti is certified to ISO 14001.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.messier-bugatti.com

PRESS RELEASE

21.11.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité receives order for 560 SITEL information systems for the French army


Paris – November 21, 2008

French defense procurement agency DGA has awarded Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) the contract for an additional batch of 560 SITEL (Système d’Information Terminaux Elémentaires) information systems, to be deployed by the French army. The contract includes the integration of the terminals in vehicles, as well as all maintenance services.

Designed for several types of combat vehicles, the SITEL information system comprises a touch-screen terminal, including digital mapping function, and an interface for connections to tactical radio, navigation and observation systems.

SITEL is interoperable with the federation of information systems deployed by the French army, including the system in the FELIN integrated equipment suite for infantry soldiers. It allows army units to exchange formatted messages, designate targets, consult data bases, share information on friend/foe situations, and make optimized tactical choices.

Sagem Défense Sécurité is prime contractor for the SITEL program, with Cap Gemini as co-contractor. A total of 4,500 terminals will be delivered to the French army. This latest order follows an earlier order for 1,000 SITEL terminals.

Used in foreign theaters of operation, SITEL systems are already in service with the 2nd Armored Brigade and the 6th Light Armored Brigade.

* Fantassins à Equipements et Liaisons INtégrés

***

Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

24.11.2008
SAFRAN Magazine named top corporate international publication by French trade association


Paris, November 24, 2008

SAFRAN Magazine was awarded the “International Magazine Prize” by the Union of Corporate Publications and Journalists (UJJEF) during a ceremony in Paris on November 20. The ceremony was hosted by Boris Eloy, president of UJJEF and head of communications at Servair, and Bernard Emsellem, head of communications at SNCF.

The UJJEF jury said: “SAFRAN Magazine is a publication that meets the standards of the international business press. With its balanced content, meticulous, broad and varied graphics and perfectly organized information, the magazine is very enjoyable to read.”

SAFRAN Magazine is produced in conjunction with the agency, Citizen Press.

* Union des journaux et journalistes d’entreprise de France

SAFRAN Magazine

***

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com |

PRESS RELEASE

26.11.2008
Aer Lingus CFM56-5B Engines Awarded TRUEngine™ Designation


EVENDALE, Ohio - November 25, 2008

CFM International has awarded the TRUEngine™ designation to a total of 70 new and overhauled CFM56-5B engines in the Aer Lingus fleet.

TRUEngine™ is a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company of Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company.

"The TRUEngine™ program is great tool for the industry," said Dave Carey, manager of Powerplant Engineering for Aer Lingus. "We take great pride the technical excellence of our CFM56-powered fleet. This designation provides a verifiable record that these engines are maintained to the very highest standards."

The CFM56-5B engines in the Aer Lingus fleet were awarded TRUEngine™ status following a comprehensive review of the airline’s fleet operational data and maintenance records.

These records validated that maintenance of all of the engines is consistent with CFM International’s requirements for those engine models, including maintenance practices, spare parts and repairs and that they comply with CFM-issued engine manuals, service bulletins, and other maintenance recommendations.

CFM is doing an extensive evaluation CFM56 engine fleets worldwide to determine their qualification for the TRUEngine™ designation. This designation is available to all CFM56 engines meeting the criteria.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.cfm56.com

PRESS RELEASE

27.11.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
PHOENIX 2008 program demo for French Army future land combat systems


Paris, November 27, 2008

The Phoenix 2008 demo took place from October 1-10 at the Mourmelon camp in conjunction with Digitized Battlefield exercises by the French Army 6th Light Infantry Brigade. The demonstration was organized by systems manufacturers, the French defense procurement agency DGA and the French Army Technical unit (STAT).

Phoenix 2008 experiments the use of future systems and equipment designed for the French Army within the context of a short time loop design, development and experimentation (CD&E) initiative.

Designed for deployment by a joint forces company-size combat unit, Phoenix 2008 implements innovations in seven areas: experimentation and simulation, maneuver command, surveillance, firing beyond the line of sight, contact support, on-vehicle combat and tactical telecommunications.

Several different networked combat systems were deployed: combat vehicles (upgraded AMX 10 RC reconnaissance vehicle, digitized VAB armored vehicle, Petit Véhicule Protégé light armored vehicle, Sherpa III), along with a FELIN-equipped infantry combat group, DRAC drones, image and electromagnetic sensors, regiment information systems and terminals, and new-generation tactical transmission systems. The latter included the FlexNet broadband software radio, used for the first time in a demo in Europe. Phoenix also provides for use of precision armaments: the 2R2M mortar, Milan ADT ER and Land Combat Missile.

These capabilities were integrated with new command and information sharing concepts enabling faster situation awareness to make the right decisions to engage hostile forces under optimum conditions.

Phoenix 2008 capitalizes on Phoenix 2007, an initial tactical test developed by Sagem Défense Sécurité in partnership with MBDA. The results centered on coordinating sensors, tactical communication needs and holding enemy situations.

Phoenix 2008 highlighted several needs in terms of reconnaissance scenarios and zone defense:

  • new automated services for operation and fire command (display of tactical situation, control of tempo and effects),
  • long-distance multi-sensor surveillance to anticipate action,
  • new weapon systems for deployment on contact and beyond the direct line of sight, associated with new precision munitions.

The demo enabled trials of image exchanges at different tactical levels to maximize decision efficiency and precision of actions.

Phoenix 2008 was executed by the French Army Technical unit STAT, French defense procurement agency DGA and the French Army 6th Light Armor Brigade. Among the many systems and equipment vendors participating in the demonstration were: Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) as lead manager and manufacturing coordinator, Bohemia Interactive, EADS Defence & Security, MBDA, Nexter Systems, Thales, plus Panhard and Renault Trucks Defence.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com | www.defense.gouv.fr/dga | www.thalesgroup.com | www.nexter.fr | www.mbda.co.uk | www.eads.com | www.vbs2.com |

PRESS RELEASE

09.12.2008, SAFRAN
Three SAFRAN Group employees honored by the Aeronautics and Astronautics Association of France


Paris, December 9, 2008

The Aeronautics and Astronautics Association of France (AAAF), a professional society for individuals and companies interested in aviation and space, holds an annual awards ceremony recognizing the top specialists in these fields.

The SAFRAN Group was in the spotlight at the 2008 awards ceremony, on December 4, as three employees were singled out for their achievements.

Grand Prize: Michel Laroche, Senior Vice President for Research and Technology, SAFRAN Group. The Grand Prize recognizes an outstanding professional career. The winner this year is Michel Laroche, who has made a significant contribution to the development of the aerospace industry through his expertise in propulsion.

Astronautics Award: Alain Souchier, future programs director, space engines division, Snecma (SAFRAN Group). The Astronautics Award for 2008 goes to Alain Souchier in recognition of his scientific and technical achievements, as well as his professional commitment to making space travel a reality.

Young Professional Award: Nicolas Chauvet, methods and aerodynamic tools engineer, Turbomeca (SAFRAN Group). The Young Professional Award recognizes the quality and originality of the work by a scientist or engineer who is less than 30 years old. A graduate of the ENSMA engineering school, with a doctorate in fluid mechanics from the University of Poitiers, Nicolas Chauvet wrote his thesis at Onera (French aerospace research agency) on aspects of propulsion jet control, to decrease the infrared signature of combat aircraft. His thesis was recognized as one of the best recent scientific contributions to applied aerodynamics, leading to a greater scientific understanding of supersonic jet flows.

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SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

11.12.2008, SAFRAN
Jean-Paul Béchat receives CEAS Gold Medal


Paris, December 11, 2008

Jean-Paul Béchat, former Chief Executive Officer of SAFRAN, received the Gold Medal from the Council of European Aeronautical Sciences (CEAS) during the 2008 prize ceremony organized on December 4 by the Aeronautical and Astronautical Association of France (AAAF). The CEAS Gold Medal is a prestigious award from the community of European aerospace scientists.

The 2008 Gold Medal was awarded to Jean-Paul Béchat in recognition of his remarkable contribution to the development of the European aerospace sector.

Jean-Paul Béchat joined Snecma in 1965 and spent most of his career with the group. He was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Snecma group from June 1996 to May 2005, when he was named Chief Executive Officer of SAFRAN (the group formed by the merger of Snecma and Sagem), a position he held until September 2007.

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SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.12.2008, Sagem Défense Sécurité
Sagem Défense Sécurité VAMPIR NG infrared search & track system chosen for Australia’s new-generation Air Warfare Destroyers (AWD)


Paris, December 16, 2008

Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) has won a contract from Raytheon Australia, acting on behalf of Australia’s Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) Alliance in an international call for tenders, to supply VAMPIR NG* infrared surveillance systems for three Air Warfare Destroyers to be deployed by the Royal Australian Navy.

The contract includes an option to provide this system for a fourth AWD.

Vampir NG is a high-performance infrared search and track (IRST) system, designed to cope with both symmetrical and asymmetrical threats, at sea and along coastlines. Calling on state-of-the-art image processing technology, it deploys third-generation gyrostabilized infrared sensors for maximum efficiency.

Sagem’s Vampir NG is integrated in the ship’s own combat system, enhancing the destroyer’s self-defense capabilities through automatic 360° tracking of aircraft and missiles.

The system’s high performance and its cost efficiency ratio were key considerations in the Air Warfare Destroyers (AWD) Alliance choice, in particular its long detection range, its friendly MMI, and its quick acquisition capability for all types of threats, from sea sea-skimming missiles to small high speed craft.

This is the latest business win for Sagem Défense Sécurité in Australia, following Vampir NG orders for eight Anzac class frigates and for the future LHD (Landing Helicopter Dock) ships. Sagem Défense Sécurité is also supplying Sigma 40 XP laser gyro inertial navigation system to modernize six Collins class submarines for the Royal Australian Navy.

* Veille Air-Mer Panoramique Infrarouge Nouvelle Génération – New Generation Infrared Panoramic Air-Sea Surveillance

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Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-ds.com

PRESS RELEASE

16.12.2008, Sagem Sécurité
SmartGate reaches milestone of 150,000 passages in Australia


Paris, December 16, 2008

Sagem Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) announced today that its automated SmartGate system, used for Australian and New Zealand travelers with electronic passports, has now exceeded 150,000 passages. This system will soon be accessible to all holders of e-passports that comply with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards.

SmartGate identifies travelers using facial recognition technology, based on photos integrated in the chip of electronic passports. The simple two-step operation requires only an automated kiosk and a biometric gate. Travelers are authenticated in real time, thus simplifying the control process, while also accelerating border passage.

Through the SmartGate project, Sagem Sécurité has created solid partnerships with the local companies Neo and Magnetic Automation, based in Melbourne, and is working closely with the Australian customs service. The SmartGate system is already in operation at the Brisbane, Cairns and Melbourne international airports, and will gradually be installed at other international airports in the country by June 2009.

The success of SmartGate confirms Sagem Sécurité’s solid position in the Asia-Pacific and international markets. As the world leader in biometric technologies, Sagem Sécurité is further strengthening its role as a supplier of innovative solutions for border controls.

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About Sagem Sécurité

Sagem Sécurité is a high-technology company in the SAFRAN Group. One of the world’s leading suppliers of identity systems, Sagem Sécurité focuses on applications including personal rights and flow management, in particular based on biometrics, a sector in which it is the world leader, secure terminals and smart cards. Its integrated systems and equipment are deployed worldwide and contribute to the safety and security of transportation, data, people and states. Sagem Sécurité is present on all continents.

In Oceania, Sagem Sécurité is represented by its subsidiary Sagem Australasia.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.sagem-securite.com

PRESS RELEASE

19.12.2008, MESSIER SERVICES
Messier Services signs a major contract with EADS


Gloucester (United Kingdom), December 18th, 2008

Messier Services UK (SAFRAN Group) and EADS, have signed a contract to provide landing gear overhaul services for the Royal Air Force’s Tornado fleet, via the aircraft prime contractor, BAE Systems. This eight and a half year term contract, covering 134 aircrafts, was signed by Erik Jensen, Vice President Military Operations, EADS, Ronald Hope, Vice President Supply Chain Management, EADS, and Paul Clifford, Managing Director of Messier Services UK. Paul Clifford commented : “This major contract secures military work at the Gloucester facility up to 2016, and our company is very pleased to be able to guarantee the supply chain to BAE Systems, via EADS and Panavia.”

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Messier Services provides maintenance, repair and overhaul services for aircraft landing systems as well as associated hydraulics. Messier Services is a member company of the SAFRAN Group, and has close to 1,100 employees at sites in Europe, the Americas and Asia. The company maintains international approvals from all relevant airframers and airworthiness authorities for the entire range of repair and maintenance operations on equipment produced by Messier-Dowty, Messier-Bugatti and other leading manufacturers.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.messierservices.com

PRESS RELEASE

28.11.2008, SAFRAN
Continuation of Vinci® program: a major decision for space propulsion in Europe


Paris, November 28, 2008.

At the European Space Agency meeting on November 25-26, European ministers in charge of space activities confirmed the preparatory development phase of the Vinci® re-ignitable engine and the new cryogenic upper stage for the Ariane 5 launcher. This phase runs from 2009 to 2011.

These decisions consolidate the dominant position of the European launcher and its ability to satisfy the evolving needs of its customers over the long term. The decision on the full development phase will be made in 2011 for a qualification flight towards 2016/2017. Snecma’s (SAFRAN Group) primary objective now is rotation of an engine and its nozzle in 2011 in a configuration comparable to the actual flight configuration.

The Vinci® engine has successfully completed all test campaigns and moved forward with each key development phase: technology prove-out of the expander cycle, maximum engine thrust, demonstration of re-ignition capability, deployment tests of the ceramic matrix composite (CMC) nozzle and over 2,300 seconds of test operation on the same engine (three times the flight time).

“SAFRAN is very pleased with the decisions announced by European ministers in charge of space activities to continue development of the Vinci® re-ignitable engine. The success of Vinci® engine tests enables us to move forward with the next phases of this program and consolidates SAFRAN’s leadership in this sector,” said Marc Ventre, Executive Vice President, SAFRAN Aerospace Propulsion Division.

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SAFRAN is an international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace Propulsion, Aircraft Equipment, and Defense Security. As of December 31, 2007, it had 63,000 employees in over 30 countries, and annual revenues of 12 billion euros. The SAFRAN Group comprises a number of companies with prestigious brand names, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or European leadership positions in all of its markets. SAFRAN is a public company listed on NYSE Euronext Paris.

CONTACTS SAFRAN

www.safran-group.com

PRESS RELEASE

Top of page

ACTS Signs Long-Term Material and Repair Agreements with GE and CFM

CFM International contact | Jamie Jewell | General Manager | Strategic Communications | Tel: +1 513.552.2790 | Cell: +1 513-885-2282 | email: jamie.jewell@ge.com

ACTS contact | Michael Kuhn | CommunicationsDirector | Tel: +1 514-856-6714 | email: michael.kuhn@acts.com

GE Aviation contacts | Rick Kennedy | Media Relations | Manager | Tel: +1 513-243-3372 | Cell: +1
513-607-0609 | email: rick.kennedy@ge.com | Deb Case | Media Relations Specialist | Tel: +1 513-243-0094 | Cell: +1 513-418-1644 | email: deborah.case@ge.com

January 9, 2008.

MONTREAL (QUEBEC), CANADA; EVENDALE (OHIO), U.S.A.

ACTS today announced the signing of a 10 year OnPointSM solutions agreement with GE for material to repair CF34 engines, and a landmark 10 year materials agreement with CFM International (CFM) for the repair and overhaul of the CFM56-2, CFM56-3, CFM56-5A, CFM56-5B and CFM56-5C engines.
Worth an estimated US$2.5 billion, both agreements cover all life limited and non-life limited parts, as well as component repair and used materials for the GE and CFM engines that ACTS repairs.

"ACTS has been servicing GE and CFM engines for over 20 years. These agreements give ACTS enhanced access to OEM-produced parts and services at industry-competitive pricing, and support efforts to produce industry-leading turnaround times", said Chahram Bolouri, president and CEO of ACTS. "This is one more way ACTS is improving its total offering to customers."

"This material agreement will enable ACTS to offer high-quality OEM parts and repairs to its CF34 MRO customers", said Brad Mottier, vice president and general manager of Services for GE Aviation. "We are very excited to work with ACTS and look forward to growing this relationship."

GE’s OnPointSM solutions are flexible, long-term commitments designed to meet customers’ unique engine services needs. Backed by GE’s world-class support, these solutions help lower customer cost-of-ownership and maximize the use of their assets. Available OnPointSM services include overhaul, on-wing support, new and used serviceable parts, component repair, technology upgrades, engine leasing and diagnostics.

"We are delighted that an MRO organization of the stature of ACTS has chosen to bring the benefits of genuine CFM parts to its operations and to its customers", said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM. "This is the largest materials agreement we have signed to date and we look forward to forging a strong bond and a great working relationship with ACTS over the next decade and beyond."

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CFM International (CFM) is a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric.

GE Aviation, an operating unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of commercial and military jet engines and components as well as integrated digital, electric power, and mechanical systems for aircraft. GE Aviation also has a global service network to support these offerings.

ACTS is one of the industry’s leading independent full-service maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service providers to the airline industry.
Originally formed as the in-house maintenance division of Air Canada, ACTS has since become a leading provider of MRO services to third-party customers worldwide. ACTS has developed an industry-wide reputation for exceptional quality with the broadest portfolios in the industry encompassing comprehensive airframe, engine and component maintenance, as well as a wide range of supply chain management services. ACTS services customers from around the world and operates major maintenance centers in Canada and El Salvador with a workforce of approximately 4,600 employees.
ACTS is headquartered in Montreal. For more information, please go to

OnPointSM is a service mark of General Electric Company.

SAGEM Open Line – plug & play fax server – now available in North America following success in Europe

Media Contact | Gisèle Seto | Sagem-Interstar Inc. | Tel : +1-514-422-4323 | email : gisele.seto@sagem-interstar.com

Montreal, Canada, January 14, 2008

SAGEM Open Line provides a secure solution for fax and document management as well as archiving. Compatible with multifunction peripherals (MFPs), it can boost productivity by as much as 90%.

Sagem-Interstar Inc. (SAFRAN Group) announced today that SAGEM Open Line – the field-proven, “plug & play” network fax server appliance – is now available in North America. SAGEM Open Line offers enterprises a comprehensive solution for all their faxing and archiving needs.
The all-in-one, turnkey SAGEM Open Line appliance (which can be placed on a desk or mounted on a rack) plugs quickly into any work environment so users can send, receive, scan, index, and automatically archive incoming and outgoing documents. Documents can be retrieved using full-text or multi-criteria search capabilities. The solution is scalable from 2 to 24 fax channels, accommodating light to heavier fax traffic.

SAGEM Open Line distinguishes itself with productivity-improvement features, such as:

  • Desktop faxing (inbound and outbound): SAGEM Open Line enables users to send and receive faxes from email clients such as Microsoft Outlook and Lotus Notes, as well as other Microsoft Office or enterprise business applications.
  • Automated faxing: Open Line allows faxing through integration with third-party business applications without any software development or programming required.
  • Outbound fax approvals: All business-critical outbound faxes, such as purchase orders or quotes, can be automatically routed to the appropriate manager to approve or reject.
  • Efficient document search and archiving: Open Line indexes and archives all faxed, scanned and stored documents. This allows for easy retrieval through Open Line’s full-text or multi-criteria search capabilities. SAGEM Open Line also offers security features that enable documents to be forwarded to either public or private folders.
  • Integration with any MFP: Fully integrates with industry-leading MFPs and copiers through native integration (OKI and Muratec), proprietary connectors (Canon and Sharp) and standard T.37 protocols (Xerox, HP, Ricoh, and Toshiba).
  • High-end hardware components: Server-class solution with hot swappable hard drives for 24/7 reliability and support service within 24 hours.

SAGEM Open Line holds a very solid track record in Europe with thousands of systems deployed in major enterprises and organizations in diverse sectors ranging from humanitarian to banking and industry. These customers manage a daily volume of several thousand faxes, which are easily transmitted, scanned, tracked, archived and retrieved because of Open Line. The solution enables significant customer service improvements and rapid ROI.

“SAGEM Open Line has experienced unrivalled success in the European SMB and large enterprise fax server market due to proven reliability and unsurpassed functionalities,” said Jean Champagne, General Manager of Sagem-Interstar. “With innovative features such as full-text search, OCR fax processing and routing, as well as automatic archiving, Open Line is well poised for similar sales success and popularity in North America. Its numerous interoperability options allow for quick and seamless integration in virtually any business environment.”

Read more about Open Line features and benefits at: http://www.faxserver.com/fax-hardwa...

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About Sagem-Interstar Inc.

Sagem-Interstar Inc., the North American subsidiary of Sagem Communications (SAFRAN Group [Paris: SAF.PA]; www.safran-na.com), is the global leader in boardless T.38 Fax over IP (FoIP) fax server solutions for VoIP networks.

Sagem-Interstar is well known for its award-winning XMediusFAX® (boardless T.38 FoIP) and LightningFAX® (for legacy fax boards) fax server software, catering to enterprise, government and service provider accounts of all sizes in more than 40 countries. Sagem-Interstar has been “Changing the Way You Fax” with software-only FoIP since 2002.

China’s Spring Airlines Selects CFM56-5B to Power A320 Fleet

Jamie Jewell | Tel : 513.552.2790 | Mobile : 513.885.2282

Rick Kennedy | Tel : 513.243.3372 | Mobile : 513.607.0609

Vincent Chappard | Tel : 33.1.69.87.09.29 |Mobile : 33.6.62.77.22.76

Antoinette Menard | Tel : 33.1.69.87.09.29 | Mobile : 33.6.74.78.10.65

EVENDALE, Ohio - January 16, 2008

China’s Spring Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to purchase CFM56-5B engines to power its new fleet of 10 Airbus A320 aircraft in an engine order valued at approximately $170 million at list price, including spare engines. The airline is scheduled to begin taking delivery in March 2009.

CFM56-5B engines are a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint venture between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company and the world’s leading supplier of commercial aircraft engines.

Spring Airlines, the first low cost carrier in China, is headquartered in Shanghai. As a subsidiary of the Spring International Travel Service Ltd., one of the leading travel service providers in China, the airline began operation in 2005 and has been profitable since then with passenger load factor as high as 95% and its CFM56 fleet has kept a very high safety standard. In addition to the purchased A320s, the airline has also signed an agreement to lease 12 additional CFM56-5B-powered Airbus A320 aircraft, which are scheduled for delivery between 2009 and 2012..

"We’re pleased to continue our relationship with CFM International and are very satisfied with the excellent performance of CFM56 engines," said Wang Zhenghua, Chairman of Spring Airlines. "The engine’s low cost of ownership has been a strong contributor to our ability to implement a long-term growth strategy."

"We are obviously honored by Spring Airlines’ continued confidence in the CFM56 product line," said Eric Bachelet, President and CEO of CFM International, "We look forward to growing and improving this relationship for many more years to come."

The CFM56-5B is the engine of choice for the Airbus A320 family and is popular with major airlines, low-cost carriers, and leasing companies alike. Nearly 3,000 CFM56-5B engines have been delivered to date, and the fleet is growing at a rate of about 40 engines per month. Primary factors behind the engine’s broad-based customer acceptance include this industry’s best reliability, durability, low cost of ownership, and world-class customer and product support. The CFM56-5B is the only engine that can power every model of the A320 family, from the small A318 up to the A321, with the same bill of materials.

Snecma Propulsion Solide creates Aeronautics and Composites Division

Jean-Louis CULLERIER| Tel: +33 (0)5 56 55 31 96 | Fax: +33 (0)5 56 55 89 85 | jean-louis.cullerier@snecma.fr

Le Haillan, January 16, 2008

Snecma Propulsion Solide has made a firm commitment to expanding the use of its composite materials to the aviation sector. Reflecting this new strategic direction, on January 1st the company created an Aeronautics and Composites division, headed by Olivier Le Merrer and reporting to the Chairman and CEO.

Snecma Propulsion Solide intends to leverage its expertise in the design and production of composite materials to expand their use on aircraft and win new contracts.

Starting more than 40 years ago, Snecma Propulsion Solide