30 January 2012

Safran and Thales have acquired Areva's 20% stake in Sofradir, their jointly owned subsidiary and a world-class centre of excellence in infrared detector technology.

Sofradir is a leading supplier of infrared detectors to the optronics industry. Its technologies are used for a wide range of commercial and military applications, particularly night vision equipment. Sofradir employed 550 people and generated revenue of around €150 million. Most of its employees are based at the company's development and production centre in Veurey-Voroize, near Grenoble, France.

Safran and Thales have raised their respective stake to 50% of Sofradir, compared to 40% previously. This transaction is part of the optronics partnership between Safran and Thales that was signed on 20 December 2011.

Safran is a leading international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace (propulsion and equipment), Defence and Security. Operating worldwide, the Safran group has more than 54,000 employees and generated sales of 10.8 billion euros in 2010. Working alone or in partnership, Safran holds world or European leadership positions in its core markets. The Group invests heavily in Research & Development to meet the requirements of changing markets, including expenditures of 1.2 billion euros in 2010. Safran is listed on NYSE Euronext Paris and its share is part of the CAC 40 index.

Safran contacts :

Press
Catherine Malek
+33 (0)1 40 60 80 28
catherine.malek@safran.fr

Investor Relations
Pascal Bantegnie
+33 (0)1 40 60 80 45
pascal.bantegnie@safran.fr

Antoine-Pierre de Grammont
+33 (0)1 40 60 80 47
antoine-pierre.degrammont@safran.fr

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