CEO Dr. Lee Finniear
We chose this category because we can offer some valuable capabilities that cant be
offered by conventional 40 mm systems. Our 3GL is the only 40 mm multi-shot
automatic grenade launcher that can be attached under an assault rifle as a
component weapon. Also, our multi-barrel 40 mm systems can apply a scalable effect,
for example our four-barrel systems can effectively deliver about 9 pounds of high
explosive projectile in 16 pieces simultaneously onto a target.
Were designing the qualification process so that many components can be re-used
with other weapon calibres. For example, significant parts of the qualification case
and test results from the fire control systems for our 3GL can be applied to our 18
mm multi-shot accessory under-barrel launcher system (MAUL).
The 40 mm market is large, in part because of its versatility for combat,
peacekeeping and non-lethal roles. And 40 mm systems can deliver payloads from tear
gas to air-bursting thermobaric warheads, flares, non-lethal impact rounds and even
small, parachute-carried surveillance cameras for situation awareness. This,
combined with the essential stopping power of the 40 mm calibre, makes it a popular
choice for military forces around the world.
corporatefile.com.au
In September 2006, you raised A$25.6 million, net of transaction costs, under a
fully underwritten renounceable rights offer of convertible notes, whose maturity
date you recently extended to 1 September 2010. Why did you decide to extend the
maturity date of the convertible notes?
CEO Dr. Lee Finniear
By extending the notes, we allow our convertible note holders and shareholders an
additional year in which to gain an appreciation of the commercial potential of our
technology before the note holders have to decide whether or not to convert their
notes to shares. During 2009 we intend to deliver qualified weapons and ammunition
and engage in targeted business development activity aimed at obtaining significant
orders for those weapons. I believe that these initiatives should trigger a marked
improvement in the share price, enhancing the outcome for shareholders and
encouraging note holders to become shareholders through conversion.
corporatefile.com.au
For the December 2007 year, Metal Storms cash outflow from operations was $11.25
million, up from $7.95 million in the previous year. Cash on hand was $15.73
million as at 31 December. What is your expected cash burn in 2008?
CEO Dr. Lee Finniear
First, let me make it clear that the cash spent on normal operations in 2007 was
almost the same as in 2006. In relation to the cash outflow numbers youve
mentioned, in 2007 we paid a full year of convertible note interest, which was $2.5
million more than in the prior year. Also, in 2006 we received tax rebates of
$679,000, whereas in 2007 we didnt receive any rebates before the year-end accounts
closed.