Saft Selected by Securaplane to Supply LS 17500 Batteries for Commercial Airplane Smoke Detectors

Feb. 2, 2006

VALDESE, N.C., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Saft, a leading manufacturer ofspecialized batteries for industrial applications, today announced it has been selected by Securaplane, aviation pioneer and expert in on-board wireless intra-aircraft data transmission systems, to supply its A-size LS17500 lithiumthionyl chloride batteries for Securaplane's advanced commercial airline smoke detectors.

Securaplane will upgrade to Saft's more powerful LS17500 batteries for the advanced version smoke detectors in 2006. These new 3.4 Ah batteries will provide longer run time and less frequent maintenance, ultimately saving the airlines money. Securaplane will continue to offer on-board smoke detectors using Saft's AA-size LS14500 batteries.

"When dealing with life-saving applications like smoke detectors, battery quality and reliability are extremely important," said Ben Helminen, Sales Director Lithium Battery Division, Saft North America. "We are pleased to continue our business relationship with Securaplane as we extend our presence in the aviation market. The fact that aircraft manufacturers on every continent have selected Saft to be their battery partner exhibits the results of our high quality products in the industry."

By using battery power instead of a traditional wired system, Securaplane's smoke detectors are preferred by many airlines because of its quick installation and easy maintenance, both of which can save time and money. In the case of an electrical failure, Saft's batteries will continue to power the smoke detectors, adding an additional level of safety and security against smoke inhalation.

"Many of our customers have experienced approximately 50 percent fewer installation man-hours by using our system versus a wired system," said Securaplane Vice President, Mark Lukso. "We selected Saft's LS series to provide reliable and long-lasting power for our wireless smoke detectors to ensure the safety of airline passengers."

Saft is the sole source for batteries used in Securaplane's smoke detectors and the LS17500 batteries will be deployed on commercial airlines starting in 2006.

About Securaplane

Securaplane Technologies Inc. is a leading supplier of avionics products for commercial, military and business aircraft including Airborne Video and Security Systems, Emergency/Main Ship Batteries, Battery Chargers and Inverters, and Wireless Technologies, including smoke detection/suppression systems. Securaplane is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Danaher Corporation, and is part of the Pacific Scientific Aerospace and Defense Group.(NYSE: DHR). More information can be found at Securaplane's web site,www.securaplane.com

About Saft

Saft (Euronext: Saft) is a world specialist in the design and manufacture of high-tech batteries for industry. Saft batteries are used in high performance applications such as industrial infrastructure and processes, transportation, space and defense. Saft is the world's leading manufacturer of nickel cadmium batteries for industrial applications and of primary lithium batteries for a wide range of end markets. The group is also the European leader for specialized advanced technologies for the defense and space industries. With approximately 4,000 employees worldwide, Saft is present in 17 countries. Its 16 manufacturing sites and extensive sales network enable the group to serve its customers worldwide.

For more information, visit Saft at www.saftbatteries.com

SOURCE Saft

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