CoorsTek Acquires Advanced Ceramics Business from BAE Systems


Additional facilities substantially expand ceramic materials and manufacturing capabilities

GOLDEN, Colo., Sept. 15, 2011 - CoorsTek, the world's largest technical ceramics manufacturer, today officially announced the purchase of BAE Systems' Vista, California advanced ceramics facilities. These three facilities total 106,000 square feet - adding to the more than three million square feet of manufacturing floor space already in place worldwide.

The Vista, California ceramics business was acquired by BAE Systems through its acquisition of United Defense, Inc. in June, 2005. These facilities develop and fabricate lightweight ceramic armor systems, semiconductor components and assemblies, and industrial components. Specifically, they manufacture hotpressed boron carbides, silicon carbides, aluminum nitrides, and other advanced ceramic materials.

"We believe this sale will better position the Vista business to realize its potential in the advanced ceramics market," said Frank Pope, president of Land & Armaments at BAE Systems. "With this acquisition, CoorsTek will serve our customers more effectively by offering expanded material options across all markets," said John K. Coors, chairman, president, and CEO of CoorsTek, Inc.

More about BAE Systems

BAE Systems is a global defense and security with approximately 100,000 employees worldwide. The company delivers a full range of products and services for air, land, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions, and support services. In 2010, BAE Systems reported sales of $34.6 billion. For further information, please contact Shannon Smith Booker at +1 703 894 3545 or shannon.n.smith@baesystems.com or visit their website at www.baesystems.com.

More about CoorsTek

Established in 1910, CoorsTek is the largest technical ceramics manufacturer in the world with over 40 facilities in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. CoorsTek supplies critical components and complete assemblies for defense, medical, automotive, semiconductor, aerospace, electronic, power generation, telecommunication, and other high-technology markets. Utilizing advanced material technologies, the company's engineered solutions enable its customers' products to overcome technological barriers and improve performance. For more information, please visit www.coorstek.com.

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