Bank of the West and 'Predator' Manufacturer Ink New Loan Agreement

(San Diego, CA., August 27, 2007) -- Bank of the West and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) of Rancho Bernardo today announced completion of a new $300 million credit facility as the company expands manufacturing and sales of Predator(r) series unmanned aircraft systems for military and commercial applications worldwide. The bank and GA-ASI have had a financial relationship since 1995, when the company was pioneering development of unmanned military aircraft systems.

"The operational effectiveness, endurance, versatility, relatively low cost and safety of Predator and Predator B aircraft in Iraq and Afghanistan have contributed to GA-ASI's success in supplying the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, NASA, and other government agencies," said SVP Cory Brazas, regional manager of the bank's National Banking office in San Diego. "The company is now expanding to supply a variety of unmanned reconnaissance aircraft to the United Kingdom, and is pursuing relationships in Canada and Australia."


"Bank of the West has shown great flexibility and versatility in matching our growth rate almost since our inception," said Neal Blue, GA-ASI's chairman and CEO. "The bank's syndication ability and willingness to grow with us has provided a highly valued service to the company and the defense effort."

Source : General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc.