GE Announces Its Entrance into the Global Cargo Security Market; Intrusion Detection Technology Helps Protect and Facilitate Global Commerce

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 13, 2004--GE's Security business (NYSE: GE) announced today that it has begun field testing a cost-effective container security solution for use in maritime shipping. Details of the solution will be rolled out at the U.S. Maritime Security Expo in New York Sept. 14-15.

The GE solution helps detect unauthorized access to a container and monitors the container in transit for signs of intrusion, which helps manufacturers, customs officials and importers protect container integrity throughout the supply chain.

More than 90 percent of all goods moved internationally are carried in containers, and around 8 million freight containers arrive at U.S. ports each year. The GE solution will establish a global mechanism for in-transit freight container security for all classes of cargo, without impeding the movement of international trade.

"The future of global commerce depends on the ability of the shipping industry and government agencies to improve cargo security while facilitating the efficient flow of goods," said Greg Burge, President of Networked Services for GE's Security business. "As one of the world's leading shippers and container lessors, GE has a significant stake in developing and deploying a safe, reliable and cost-effective global solution."

The palm-sized container security device (CSD) easily fastens without special tools to the door jamb inside any standard maritime container. The cargo's manufacturer uses a wireless handheld device to arm the device with a unique identifier code.

The CSD automatically communicates its status to fixed wireless readers at ports, indicating when and where the container has been opened since it was initially sealed. Customs officials can also inspect the cargo at any time using a special handheld wireless device to arm and disarm the CSD. When the container is delivered, the importer verifies the access record and disarms the CSD prior to opening.

All data is stored and managed through a secure information backbone. Communication between wireless readers and container security devices is encrypted, as are all transaction records.

The container security device was developed by Sweden-based All Set Marine Security AB, and has been tested by the U.S. government and private industry. The capabilities of the device are amplified through GE's access control platform and sensor suites, and the company's expertise in wireless handheld transactional software and data management networks.

"GE is uniquely positioned to lead the development of a global solution because of its capabilities in high-volume manufacturing, commercial deployment, technology integration and customer support," said Burge.

About GE Infrastructure, Security

The Security business of GE Infrastructure is a wholly owned subsidiary of the General Electric Company focused on communication and information technologies for security, safety and lifestyle enhancements. It has operations in more than 30 countries and is represented by some of the best-known brand names for intrusion and fire detection, access and building control, video surveillance, explosive and drug detection, key management, and structured wiring. For more information about GE's Security business and our product offerings, please visit www.gesecurity.com.

GE Infrastructure is a high-technology platform comprised of some of GE's fastest-growing businesses. These global businesses offer a set of infrastructure protection and productivity solutions to some of the most pressing issues that industries face: pure water, safe facilities, plant automation, and sensing applications in the operating environment. GE Infrastructure is headquartered in Wilton, CT. Learn more at www.geinfrastructure.com.

Austin Jay Pinkert,

512-381-2778

Email: jay.pinkert@ge.com