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ATK Rocket Motors and Composites Help Launch New Earth Observation Satellite Aboard Delta II Rocket

ATK Helps Place Polar-orbiting Satellite in Space

May 20, 2005

Minneapolis, May 20, 2005 – Alliant Techsystems (NYSE: ATK) rocket motor and composite technologies supported today’s successful launch of a Boeing Delta II rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The launch successfully placed the NOAA-N civilian weather satellite into polar orbit for NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The satellite is critical to advancing global earth observation and will help improve weather and climate forecasts as well as U.S. search and rescue operations.

Three GEM-40 solid propulsion strap-on boosters provided additional thrust for the launch—continuing a tradition of flight support that began in 1990. All three of the boosters ignited at lift-off with the first-stage main engine and burned for just over one minute.

The filament-wound solid rocket motor cases and composite payload fairing, which protects the satellite during launch, are produced by ATK.

ATK is a $3 billion advanced weapon and space systems company employing approximately 14,000 people in 23 states. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.