Largest independent structures supplier to streamline product development processes with innovative end-to-end PLM solution

Paris, France, October 25, 2005 - IBM and Dassault Systèmes (DS) (Nasdaq: DASTY; Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA) today announced that Spirit AeroSystems, the largest independent structures supplier to the worldwide aerospace industry and a major supplier to Boeing Commercial Aircraft, has chosen their PLM solutions to enhance real-time collaboration with its customers and improve the global efficiency of product development processes.

Spirit will deploy a global end-to-end IBM PLM solution that includes industry-leading software applications developed by Dassault Systèmes, along with leading-edge middleware, hardware and services. The supplier will deploy CATIA V5’s collaborative digital product design in a seamlessly integrated environment with ENOVIA LCA for product data management and DELMIA for digital manufacturing simulation. With 500 seats, these solutions will together enable aircraft structure and system development based on industry-proven best practices, while supporting the industry-specific processes found in the aerospace sector.

Using this PLM solution, Spirit will gain greater control over its data and processes, enabling it to work more efficiently and responsively, and enhancing its competitiveness. It will also optimize collaboration with Boeing Commercial Aircraft, the company’s largest customer, with whom it is already tightly integrated.

Spirit builds parts for almost every Boeing Commercial jetliner in production, and is currently responsible for the important forward section of the revolutionary 787 Dreamliner. Spirit also designs and manufactures the engine pylons and both fixed and moveable wing components. The developmental forward barrel _ called Section 41 _ is made of advanced composite material and was recently rolled out to much fanfare by Spirit and Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner team.

According to Spirit's Engineering Department, “This decision is not just about the advanced composite design capabilities that CATIA V5 brings to our design engineers. It’s about collaborating with Boeing and the global 787 team in real-time, with no translation or papered-over integrations. This global collaboration is key to our success and to the success of our customer.”

“As a major supplier to the aerospace industry, Spirit is facing increased responsibilities in a very competitive marketplace,” said John Porter, Vice President, Product Lifecycle Management, IBM Americas. “Our end-to-end PLM solutions will help Spirit transform its business by cutting costs, optimizing collaboration and the use of critical information. Thus they will increase differentiation through innovative products and services and offer their customers unique value.

“Marcelo Lemos, President, Dassault Systemes of America, said, “Drawing upon our experience of working closely with leading aerospace companies, we have developed a portfolio of Digital Aircraft Solutions which addresses the specific transformation needs of the industry. We are delighted to work with Spirit AeroSystems and deliver to them field-proven solutions that enable unparalleled process innovation and real-time collaboration.”

###