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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002 Commission file number 0-7390
AERO SYSTEMS ENGINEERING, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Minnesota 41-0913117
(State of incorporation) (I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
358 East Fillmore Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota 55107
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code (651) 227-7515
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, Par Value $.20 Per Share
(Title of Class)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding twelve months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes |X| No | |
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. |X|
Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined
in Rule 126-2 of the Act).
Yes | | No |X|
The aggregate market value of the voting stock and non-voting held by
nonaffiliates of the registrant as of January 31, 2003 was approximately
$3,396,639 based upon the average of the closing bid and asked prices of the
stock on such date.
The number of common shares outstanding as of January 31, 2003 was 4,401,625.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE................................................. 3
CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET BETWEEN ITEMS IN PART III
OF FORM 10-K AND PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO
GENERAL INSTRUCTION G............................................................... 4
PART I
Item 1. Business.................................................................. 5
Item 2. Properties................................................................ 10
Item 3. Legal Proceedings......................................................... 11
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders....................... 11
PART II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity and Related
Stockholder Matters....................................................... 11
Item 6. Selected Financial Data................................................... 12
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations................................................. 12
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk................ 17
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data............................... 18
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Disclosure...................................................... 37
PART III
Item 10. through Item 13. See Documents Incorporated by Reference.................. 37
Item 14. Controls and Procedures................................................... 37
PART IV
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K.......... 37
Signatures.......................................................................... 39
Certifications...................................................................... 41
Exhibit 99.1........................................................................ 45
Exhibit 99.2........................................................................ 46
2
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
The following documents are incorporated by reference into the Form 10-K:
PARTS OF FORM 10-K INTO
WHICH INCORPORATED BY
DOCUMENT REFERENCE
- ---------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------
Proxy Statement to be filed on or before April 25, 2003
for the annual meeting of shareholders on May 28, 2003 III (Parts 10 through 13)
3
CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET BETWEEN ITEMS IN PART III OF FORM 10-K
AND PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO GENERAL INSTRUCTION G
SUBJECT HEADINGS IN
DOCUMENT PROXY STATEMENT
- ----------------------------------------------------------- -----------------------
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the
Registrant Election of Directors
Item 11. Executive Compensation Election of Directors
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial
Owners and Management Principal Shareholders
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions Election of Directors
Item 14. Not Incorporated by Reference
4
PART I
ITEM 1 - BUSINESS
General Development of Business - Aero Systems Engineering, Inc. (ASE or the
Company) is a global turnkey provider of test facilities and systems for the
aerodynamic and propulsion test system markets. ASE is a Minnesota corporation
that was organized on May 11, 1967. The Company is primarily engaged in selling
products and services related to testing turbine engines, and the business of
designing, constructing, and supplying various types of test facilities, such as
wind tunnels and other aerodynamic test facilities. The Company also owns an
Aerotest Laboratory, which provides aeropropulsion component and aerodynamic
testing services.
Prior to September 25, 2001, approximately 80% of the Company's outstanding
common stock was owned by Celsius Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Saab AB,
which is a Swedish company. On September 25, 2001, Minnesota ASE, LLC acquired
2,245,000 shares of common stock of Aero Systems Engineering, Inc. from Celsius
Inc., representing 51% of the Company's outstanding shares. Celsius Inc. retains
a 29% stock interest in the Company.
On October 17, 2002, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement
with Goldsmith Agio Helms to assist the Company in exploring strategic
alternatives, including alternatives involving business combinations and a sale
of the stock of the Company. The Company indicated that this action was
initiated because of the recognition, among other things, that the Company has
little stock float, that the trading price of the Company's stock was
dramatically affected by relatively small stock transactions, and like so many
companies, the Company had become an "orphan" company from the standpoint of the
stock market. Further, access to the resources of a larger organization could
facilitate more rapid growth in the Company's current and expanded markets.
There is no deadline for completing the process and the Company does not
presently intend to offer additional comments about these matters unless and
until the Company decides to proceed with a material transaction or decide to no
longer pursue the process.
The plan of operations for 2003 with respect to the Company is to continue with
its current activities and operations in the test cell, wind tunnel, and
aerodynamic testing markets. In addition, the Company plans to explore new
markets as deemed appropriate through acquisitions or using joint ventures with
established companies. Currently, the Company has no such agreements regarding
such opportunities. The Company is expanding into the industrial engine and
small commuter engine testing marketplace. In regards to this type of expansion,
the Company signed an exclusive services agreement with Honeywell in early 2002
where the Company will function as the exclusive subcontractor to Honeywell to
provide design, engineering, and fabrication services for Honeywell engine test
cells sold to third parties. Also, acoustic measurement processes to measure
noise levels are technologies whereby the Company is creating new customers and
providing additional value to existing customers.
5
Lines of Business/Segment Reporting - The Company is engaged in two lines of
business. The first is related to the design, equipping, manufacture, and
construction of test facilities for turbine engines, engine accessories, and
wind tunnels. The second business line is providing aeropropulsion component
testing and aerodynamic testing services at the Aerotest Laboratory facility.
The Company regards these lines of business as being in their entirety one
segment of business.
Products and Services - The Company's products and services include the
following:
- Design and overall project management for construction of jet engine
testing facilities and wind tunnel test facilities;
- Design and manufacture of electronic and mechanical turbine engine
testing equipment;
- Providing of aerodynamic and propulsion system testing services;
- Application of engineering technology to specific engine and
aerodynamic testing problems;
- Providing acoustic design and measurement services.
The Company undertakes research and development projects by applying leading
edge technology to customer situations in engine, wind tunnel, and aerodynamic
testing.
The Company's principal sources of revenue are the design and construction of
turbine and wind tunnel test facilities and associated test equipment. An
additional important source of revenue for the Company is providing aerodynamic
and propulsion system testing services at the Aerotest Laboratory.
The Company does not generally produce products as inventory items; rather, the
Company's products are usually made to order and are limited to individual
application and adaptation. The Company does build and inventory limited amounts
of selected electronic products and spare parts and components for customer
support.
Most of the instrumentation and much of the equipment used in a jet engine or
wind tunnel test facility are not manufactured by the Company, but are
manufactured for the Company by suppliers. The Company adds value by combining
these electronic and mechanical components purchased from other companies and
assembling them to make the desired testing equipment or facility. For a
complete test facility, the Company designs the testing facility but
subcontracts the civil engineering work and construction to local civil
construction companies.
Sales of test facilities have resulted principally from direct customer
contacts, independent sales agents, and the Company's internal marketing staff.
Raw Materials - The principal raw materials used by the Company are raw and
fabricated steel and aluminum. Various electronic components are also purchased
and assembled into completed units. These materials are readily available from a
number of suppliers. Therefore, the Company anticipates no difficulty in
securing an alternate source of supply of these products should it be unable to
obtain materials from its present suppliers.
6
Patents and Trademarks - The Company currently owns several patents relating to
a free piston shock tube and for a test cell stack design. The Company has
applied to various foreign countries' patent offices to register the U.S.
patents in those countries. The Company has three patent applications in process
at the time of this filing. One is for a plate fin heat exchanger application,
the second is for an automotive wind tunnel open jet collector design, and the
third is for an improved noise reduction system for free-fall simulators.
Periodically, the Company seeks trademark protection for certain of its
products. The Company does not hold nor has it issued any significant licenses,
franchises or concessions. While the Company may apply for patents on some of
its instruments or components thereof, generally the Company does not consider
the patentability or the protection that may be afforded by patents to be
material to its present business.
Seasonal Nature of Business - The business of the Company is not seasonal in
nature.
Working Capital - The Company has no need to and does not maintain significant
amounts of inventory or supplies. The Company does not generally grant extended
payment terms to customers. However, because certain of the Company's contracts
with its customers extend over multiple years, outstanding balances due from a
customer may be quite large. The Company is occasionally required to issue
standby letters of credit as a guarantee for customers' advances and performance
of the project by the Company. Additionally, in various governmental contracts,
there are retainages, usually 5% to 10%, that are held back by governmental
agencies to ensure contract performance. The Company's practices concerning
inventory and credit are consistent with practices in the industry.
The Company has consistently relied upon bank credit lines during recent years
as a source of its working capital resources and liquidity. During the third
quarter 2001, Celsius Inc. sold 51% of the total outstanding shares of common
stock of ASE to Minnesota ASE, LLC. Related to this transaction, the Company
secured new bank financing agreements for operating funds and future letter of
credit needs. These agreements are asset-based collateral agreements, with the
funds available under these agreements determined by the available securable
assets at any point in time, up to a maximum of $6,000,000 of operating funds
and $3,000,000 of letter of credit funds. Also related to the transaction,
Celsius Inc. agreed to continue to hold until maturity certain existing bank
guarantees that were previously provided to a few of the Company's customers,
and Celsius Inc. provided a three-year $1,500,000 loan to the Company at 8% per
year, which is subordinated debt to the bank agreement. This loan is
collateralized by a third party pledge by Minnesota ASE, LLC of the shares of
ASE purchased by Minnesota ASE, LLC from Celsius Inc. The Company has provided
an indemnification agreement to Celsius Inc. to secure Celsius Inc.'s interest
in the above items. On September 25, 2001, Minnesota ASE, LLC loaned the Company
$2,600,000 in order to supplement bank financing, and $2,300,000 of the balance
was repaid prior to December 31, 2001. During 2002, Minnesota ASE, LLC loaned
the Company an additional $200,000, leaving an outstanding balance of $500,000
at December 31, 2002.
7
Customers - The Company provides products and services for numerous companies in
the aerospace industry as well as the U.S. federal government and foreign
governmental entities. The orders to provide these services can originate from
many customers and quite frequently result in repeat business. In 2002, three
customers each accounted for more than 10% of the Company's revenues. These
three customers were the United States Government, General Electric, and
DSO-Singapore. In aggregate, these three customers accounted for approximately
49% of 2002 revenue. The Company believes that the loss of no other single
customer would have a material adverse effect on its future revenues. In 2001
and 2000, three customers each accounted for more than 10% of the Company's
revenues. These three customers were Boeing, General Electric, and
DSO-Singapore.
Backlog - The Company's order backlog constitutes future revenue to be earned on
contracts, including unearned revenue on projects currently in progress. The
backlog of orders as of December 31, 2002 was $21,308,000. This compares with a
backlog of $29,483,000 on December 31, 2001. Although backlog did decrease from
$29.5 million at the end of 2001 to $21.3 million at the end of 2002, this was
largely due to the work performed in 2002 on the three-year Singapore wind
tunnel project.
Competition - There are several other firms in the world offering services
similar to those provided by the Company. These firms are based in North
America, Europe, and the Pacific Rim. The exact competitive position of the
Company in the markets in which it operates is not known to the Company, but the
Company believes that it is one of the major suppliers in the markets it serves.
The technology used by the Company is not proprietary, and most commercial
airlines, engine manufacturers, and airframe manufacturers have the in-house
engineering capability to compete directly with the Company in the design and
building of jet engine test facilities. The Company believes that in order to
reduce cost and risk, many of these firms generally prefer to engage the
services of the Company or one of its competitors. In the test cell industry in
which the Company competes, the principal means of competition are price,
technological design, project management knowledge, and delivery capability.
For wind tunnel facilities, the Company has historically designed and built
high-speed wind tunnels for worldwide governmental agencies, commercial
companies, and other research institutions.
The Company has in the past been aided in financing projects by utilizing the
financial strength of Celsius AB, which is now a subsidiary of Saab AB. Without
the ability to issue standby letters of credit to guarantee the Company's
performance, ASE might not have been the prime contractor on certain of these
projects.
Research and Development - Research and development performed by the Company is
applied engineering, that is, applying present engineering knowledge and
technology toward solving customer problems in turbine engine and aerodynamic
testing. The Company is currently enhancing the ASE2000, which is its latest
computer data acquisition system. The expense of research and development was
$368,000, $421,000, and $625,000 for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001,
and 2000, respectively.
8
Environmental Matters - There has not been, and it is not expected that there
will be, any material effect upon capital expenditures, earnings, or the
competitive position of the Company due to compliance with federal, state, and
local environmental protection regulations.
Employees - As of December 31, 2002, the Company had 180 employees.
Additionally, contract labor has been used as business conditions require. There
are currently no collective bargaining agreements covering any of the Company's
employees. The Company has not experienced a strike or work stoppage, and
management believes that its employee relations are good.
Foreign Operations - While business in foreign countries is always subject to
interference or restrictions by foreign governments or restrictions imposed by
the United States government, the Company believes that the nature of its
business is such that it is not likely to be subject to such interference.
However, wind tunnels with a Mach number in excess of 0.9 require approval from
the U.S. State Department if they are sold to a foreign country. The Company
expects that a significant amount of international business will continue
through 2003.
For certain foreign and domestic projects, the Company obtains payment terms or
financial protections, such as irrevocable letters of credit and bank
guarantees, to better assure payment to the Company in the event of any
financial difficulty. Nevertheless, foreign projects always have inherent
foreign currency risks with respect to currency exposures or purchase
commitments. The Company hedges currency exposure as deemed appropriate to
minimize the foreign exchange exposure.
9
ITEM 2 - PROPERTIES
The Company's headquarters are located in a concrete building in a light
industrial area at 358 East Fillmore Avenue, Saint Paul, Minnesota, that it has
been occupying since 1971. The Company purchased this facility during 1993 from
the Port Authority of Saint Paul (the Port Authority). Currently, the Company
has approximately 52,000 total square feet, of which 45,000 square feet is used
for engineering and administrative offices and 7,000 square feet is used for
manufacturing.
The Company leases from the Port Authority a building that has 24,000 square
feet of manufacturing and warehouse space located at 181 East Florida Street,
Saint Paul, Minnesota. When the lease agreement expired in July 2002, the
Company had the option to purchase the facility for approximately $95,000. As of
December 31, 2002, the Company has provided notification of its intention to
exercise the purchase option, but has not yet closed on the property due to
title issues. The Company continues to utilize the building and intends to
purchase the building when the title issues are resolved, which is expected to
be shortly. Current properties are expected to be adequate to meet the needs of
the Company for the foreseeable future.
The Company owns an aerodynamic testing facility located at 13825 Schmidt Lake
Road, Plymouth, Minnesota. Currently, there is approximately 25,000 total square
feet of specialized engineering and testing space at this facility, of which
18,000 square feet is used for manufacturing and testing, and 7,000 square feet
is used for offices.
The Company leases 1,510 square feet of office space in Hampton, Virginia. This
office space was subleased by another company until recently. The Company is
currently searching for a new tenant. The Company no longer has any employees
located in this facility, and the remaining lease is in effect until April 2004.
10
ITEM 3 - LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
There are no significant legal proceedings in process at the time of this
report.
ITEM 4 - SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matter was submitted during the fourth quarter of 2002 to a vote of security
holders through the solicitation of proxies or otherwise.
PART II
ITEM 5 - MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The Company's common stock currently is quoted on The Nasdaq SmallCap
Market(SM). On January 31, 2003, the closing sale price for the Company's common
stock was $4.45.
The high and low sales prices for the Company's common stock for each quarter
during 2000 and 2001, as quoted on Nasdaq, were as follows:
HIGH LOW
-------- -------
2002:
First Quarter 2.80 1.36
Second Quarter 4.84 1.86
Third Quarter 8.00 3.91
Fourth Quarter 7.71 3.01
2001:
First Quarter $1.88 $1.44
Second Quarter 1.74 1.30
Third Quarter 1.60 .91
Fourth Quarter 2.85 .88
The quotations set forth above reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail
markup, markdown, or commission, and may not necessarily represent actual
transactions.
No cash dividends have ever been paid in the history of the Company. The
Company's Board of Directors reviews the Company's dividend policy at least
annually. As of December 31, 2002, there were approximately 178 holders of
record of common stock of the Company and 4,401,625 total shares outstanding.
11
ITEM 6 - SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Selected financial data for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
2002 2001 2000 1999 1998
----------- ----------- ------------ ------------ ------------
SELECTED INCOME STATEMENT
DATA
Earned revenue $40,856,807 $27,182,583 $ 30,646,114 $ 31,061,082 $ 27,181,448
Net income (loss) 2,360,073 270,938 331,003 (645,307) 665,200
Net income (loss) per
common share .54 .06 .08 (.15) .15
Weighted average common
shares outstanding 4,401,625 4,401,625 4,401,625 4,401,625 4,401,625
SELECTED BALANCE SHEET
DATA
Current assets $18,809,918 $11,243,385 $ 13,043,123 $ 14,180,121 $ 15,424,033
Current liabilities 13,738,791 9,375,300 13,506,301 15,368,305 15,750,389
Working capital 5,071,127 1,868,085 (463,178) (1,188,184) (326,356)
Total assets 22,931,106 15,856,797 18,226,831 19,808,689 20,899,616
Long-term debt and
capital lease
obligations 1,582,020 1,609,755 119,726 170,583 234,119
Stockholders' equity 7,231,817 4,871,742 4,600,804 4,269,801 4,915,108
ITEM 7 - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL
CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc. is engaged in selling products and services
related to (1) testing turbine engines and design and operation of aerodynamic
wind tunnels, and (2) providing aerodynamic and propulsion system testing
services. The Company designs the testing facility but subcontracts the civil
engineering work and construction to local civil construction companies.
Results of Operations - Earned revenue for the year ended December 31, 2002 was
$40,857,000, an increase of $13,674,000 or 50% as compared to 2001 revenue of
$27,183,000. Earned revenue for 2000 was $30,646,000. The revenue increase from
2001 to 2002 was mostly attributable to the increase in orders in process,
resumption of normal activities on the Singapore wind tunnel project since
receipt of the export license in early September 2001 and success in new
initiatives. The revenue decrease from 2000 to 2001 was mostly due to the delay
of U.S. government approval of the export license application for the wind
tunnel project in Singapore. The export license was submitted for approval
during the fourth quarter of 2000. Because of this delay, work on the project
had been very limited during 2001, resulting in lower revenue and margin
recognition.
The cost of earned revenue, which includes manufacturing and engineering costs,
was 77% of earned revenue in 2002 as compared to 75% in 2001 and 78% in 2000.
The percentage increase in cost of earned revenue during 2002 was mostly the
result of work shifting to slightly lower margin projects in the wind tunnel
portion of the business during 2002. The percentage decrease in cost of earned
revenue during 2001 was mostly due to the fact that there were no occurrences of
major cost overruns on any of the projects during 2001 as compared to 2000 and
generally the projects that were in process during 2001 were slightly lower cost
projects.
12
The Company recognizes revenue and profit as work on long-term contracts
progresses using the percentage-of-completion method of accounting, which relies
on estimates of total expected contract revenues and costs. The Company follows
this method since reasonably dependable estimates of the revenue and costs
applicable to various stages of a contract can be made. Because the financial
reporting of these contracts depends on estimates, which are assessed
continually during the term of the contract, recognized revenues and profit are
subject to adjustments as the contract progresses to completion. Revisions in
profit estimates are reflected in the period in which the facts that give rise
to the revision become known. Accordingly, favorable changes in estimates result
in additional profit recognition, and unfavorable changes in estimates result in
the reversal of previously recognized revenue and profits. When estimates
indicate a loss under a contract, cost of revenue is charged with a provision
for such loss. As work progresses under a loss contract, revenue continues to be
recognized, and a portion of the contract costs incurred in each period is
charged to the contract loss reserve.
The backlog of orders as of December 31, 2002 was $21,308,000, which consisted
of $19,741,000 that was related to jet engine test cell projects and wind tunnel
projects and $1,567,000 related to Aerotest Lab/Other. Backlog of orders as of
December 31, 2001 was $29,483,000, of which $27,630,000 was related to test cell
and wind tunnel projects and $1,853,000 related to Aerotest Lab/Other. Backlog
of orders as of December 31, 2000 was $27,710,000, of which $26,221,000 was
related to test cell and wind tunnel projects and $1,489,000 related to Aerotest
Lab/Other.
The change in backlog from 2001 to 2002 represents a 28% decrease in total
backlog. New orders received in 2002 totaled $32,692,000 as compared to the
previous year of $28,995,000. The 2002 decrease in backlog was mostly related to
the conversion of backlog into revenue on the large Singapore wind tunnel
project. The change in backlog from 2000 to 2001 represents a 6% increase in
total backlog. The 2001 increase in backlog was mostly related to the strong
order intake during the second half of 2001.
Operating expenses were $5,916,000, $5,140,000, and $5,316,000 in years 2002,
2001, and 2000, respectively. These expenses increased 15% in 2002 as compared
to 2001 primarily as a result of additional marketing staff during 2002 and
increased commission expense. The expense decrease of 3% in 2001 as compared to
2000 was primarily as a result of less expenditures on bid and proposal
activities. In 2000, bid and proposal expenditures included significant
activities on several large turnkey proposals.
13
Research and Development (R&D) costs were $368,000, $421,000, and $625,000 in
years 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively, and were primarily related to
activities to enhance the capabilities of the ASE2000 Computer Data Acquisition
System. This activity will continue into 2003, which management believes will
further improve the marketability of the system. The reduction from 2001 is
related to fewer active R&D programs in 2002. The reduction in 2001 from 2000 is
also related to fewer active R&D programs in 2001.
Interest expense was $278,000, $721,000, and $574,000 in years 2002, 2001, and
2000, respectively. The major items bearing interest expense are the line of
credit and borrowings from related parties. The average outstanding borrowings
on the line of credit were $420,000 and $5,830,000 during 2002 and 2001,
respectively. The decrease in borrowings from 2001 to 2002 is mostly due to the
Company's ability to resume normal invoicing activities on the Singapore wind
tunnel project after the receipt of the export license. On the line of credit,
the weighted average interest rate for 2002 was 4.75% compared to 8.7% in 2001.
The increase in interest expense from 2000 to 2001 reflects the increased
borrowings during 2001 due to the impact of the delay of the receipt of the
export license for the wind tunnel project in Singapore thereby delaying
milestone invoicing activities. The weighted average interest rate for 2001 was
8.7% on the line of credit compared to 10.6% in 2000.
The Company recorded income tax expense of $479,000 in 2002, as compared to
$152,000 in 2001 and $6,000 in 2000. Through September 25, 2001, the Company was
included in the consolidated federal income tax return of Celsius Inc. The
Company's income tax provision was calculated and presented on a separate return
basis. Upon the closing of the acquisition of 51% of the Company's stock by
Minnesota ASE, LLC, Celsius Inc. owned less than 80% of the Company and,
accordingly, no longer included the Company in its consolidated federal income
tax return. In the third quarter of 2001, in conjunction with that transaction,
the Company recorded a noncash charge of $100,000 to reduce its income tax
receivable from Celsius Inc. as a result of the termination of the tax sharing
agreement. Also, as a part of the termination of the federal tax agreement with
Celsius Inc., the Company and Celsius Inc. agreed to prorate the total 2001
federal tax liability based on the relative time periods of ownership during
2001, which reduced the Company's current income tax expense. During the fourth
quarter of 2002, the Company reversed previously established tax valuation
allowances of $546,000, as management concluded that certain tax assets were
realizable. This was a non-cash transaction.
The Company recorded net income of $2,360,000, $271,000, and $331,000 in 2002,
2001, and 2000, respectively. The increase from 2001 was due to the increased
business level and reduced interest expense as a result of reduced debt levels
and lower interest rates. The reduction in net income in 2001 from 2000 was due
to the increase in income tax expense relating to the termination of the federal
income tax allocation agreement between the Company and Celsius Inc., which was
terminated at the time of the sale on September 25, 2001.
14
Liquidity and Capital Resources - To minimize working capital requirements, the
Company attempts to match receipt of contract installment payments with related
contract expenditures. The Company's current ratio was 1.4 as of December 31,
2002, 1.2 as of December 31, 2001, and 1.0 as of December 31, 2000. Working
capital amounts were $5,071,000 as of December 31, 2002, $1,868,000 as of
December 31, 2001, and $(463,000) as of December 31, 2000.
The December 31, 2002 accounts receivable balance was $6,672,000, an increase of
$1,942,000, as compared to 2001's balance of $4,730,000. The increase in the
accounts receivable balance for 2002 was due to the contractual timing of
customer billings.
Accounts payable and accrued expenses amounts were $9,686,000 and $5,538,000 in
2002 and 2001, respectively. The 2002 increase is $4,148,000 or 75%, as compared
to 2001. The increase from 2001 is due primarily to the timing of procurement
activities for existing projects, of which a couple of the larger projects had
moved into the procurement phase of the project schedule toward the end of the
year.
Billings in excess of earnings were $3,431,000, an increase of $1,740,000 when
compared to 2001's balance of $1,691,000. This increase is due primarily to the
timing of billing milestones related to contracts. Billings are a function of
contract terms and do not necessarily relate to the percentage of completion of
a project.
The Company has relied upon bank credit lines during recent years as a source of
its working capital resources and liquidity. On September 25, 2001, the Company
entered into new financing arrangements to replace its former credit line.
The Company's new bank agreements, which expire in September 2003, are
asset-based collateral arrangements, with the funds available under these
agreements determined by the available securable assets at any point in time, up
to a maximum of $6,000,000 in operating funds, and $3,000,000 of letter of
credit funds. The average funds available and amounts outstanding on the
operating line and letter of credit during the period ended December 31, 2002
were $420,000 outstanding on $3,200,000 available and $2,200,000 outstanding on
$3,000,000 available, respectively. The Company will negotiate to extend the
existing bank agreements before September 2003.
The bank agreement contains covenants that require the Company to maintain
certain financial ratios. The Company has been in compliance since inception and
remains in compliance with these covenants as of December 31, 2002.
The Company also obtained a $1,500,000 three-year term loan from Celsius Inc.,
which is due September 2004. The loan bears interest at 8% and is subordinated
to debt issued under the banking agreement. This loan is collateralized by a
third-party pledge by Minnesota ASE, LLC of the shares of ASE purchased by
Minnesota ASE, LLC from Celsius Inc. Celsius Inc. has also agreed to continue to
hold certain existing bank guarantees until maturity that were previously
provided to certain of the Company's customers. The Company has provided an
indemnification agreement to Celsius Inc. to secure Celsius Inc.'s interest in
the above items.
15
At the end of 2002, the Company had notes payable balances of $500,000 current
and $1,500,000 long term. The current notes payable balance of $500,000
consisted of $500,000 of interim loans provided by Minnesota ASE, LLC. The
$500,000 note to Minnesota ASE, LLC is at 8% per year and is a demand note. The
Company believes that its bank lines of credit and notes, along with cash flows
from continuing operations, are expected to be adequate to meet cash
requirements in 2003.
The tables below summarize the Company's existing contractual obligations and
commercial commitments in existence at December 31, 2002.
PAYMENTS DUE BY PERIOD
--------------------------------------------------------------
CONTRACTUAL LESS THAN AFTER 5
OBLIGATIONS TOTAL 1 YEAR 1-3 YEARS 4-5 YEARS YEARS
- ------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Long-term debt $1,500,000 $ -- $1,500,000 $ -- $ --
Capital lease obligations 219,584 129,052 70,090 20,442 --
Operating leases 109,007 49,156 59,508 343 --
Unconditional purchase
obligations -- -- -- -- --
Other long-term
obligations -- -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total contractual cash
obligations $1,828,591 $ 178,208 $1,629,598 $ 20,785 $ --
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Refer to footnote 5 for discussion about long-term debt and footnote 7 for
discussion about lease obligations.
AMOUNT OF COMMITMENT EXPIRATION PER PERIOD
OTHER TOTAL -------------------------------------------------
COMMERCIAL AMOUNTS LESS THAN OVER 5
COMMITMENTS COMMITTED 1 YEAR 1-3 YEARS 4-5 YEARS YEARS
- ------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Lines of credit $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ --
Standby letters of credit 4,270,975 2,413,175 1,857,800 -- --
Guarantees -- -- -- -- --
Standby repurchase
obligations -- -- -- -- --
Other commercial
commitments -- -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total commercial
commitments $4,270,975 $2,413,175 $1,857,800 $ -- $ --
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Refer to footnote 8 for discussion about contingencies and commitments.
16
Capital expenditures, including amounts under capital leases, were $567,000,
$475,000, and $655,000 in years 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively. Most of the
2002 capital expenditures were used to update desktop and shop equipment and
facility improvements.
Highly competitive market conditions have minimized the effect of inflation on
contract selling prices and the cost of purchased materials.
During 2002, approximately 56% of revenues were from international projects.
Substantially all of the contract amounts are payable in U.S. dollars. For those
contracts that are denominated in foreign currencies, the Company has entered
into forward exchange contracts with banks to minimize the risks associated with
foreign currency exchange rates. During 2001 and 2000, approximately 52% and 46%
of revenues respectively were from international projects. Substantially all of
the contract amounts are payable in U.S. dollars.
ITEM 7A - QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE
ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company's long-term contracts are substantially all denominated in U.S.
dollars. In certain circumstances, the Company has hedged its exposure to
foreign currency fluctuations. A 10% adverse change in foreign currency rates
would not have a material effect on the Company's results of operations or
financial position.
The Company is also subject to interest rate risk. The Company has not hedged
its exposure to interest rate fluctuations; however, a 10% increase or decrease
in interest rates would not have a material effect on the Company's results of
operations, fair values, or cash flows.
17
ITEM 8 - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY
DATA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS..................................................... 19
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Balance Sheets................................................................... 20
Statements of Earnings........................................................... 22
Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity.................................... 23
Statements of Cash Flows......................................................... 24
Notes to Financial Statements.................................................... 25
18
Report of Independent Auditors
The Stockholders and Board of Directors
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Aero Systems Engineering,
Inc. as of December 31, 2002 and 2001, and the related statements of earnings,
changes in stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in
the period ended December 31, 2002. These financial statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an
opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted
in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit
to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free
of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement
presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
at December 31, 2002 and 2001, and the results of its earnings and its cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2002, in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
January 24, 2003
19
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Balance Sheets
DECEMBER 31
2002 2001
----------- -----------
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 3,233,679 $ 96,939
Accounts receivable - billed contracts, net of
allowances of $110,000 in 2002 and $50,000 in 2001,
including retainages of $0 and $106,000 in
2002 and 2001 6,671,843 4,730,460
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on
uncompleted contracts 6,361,226 4,876,894
Inventories 1,203,706 1,220,933
Prepaid expenses and other, net 341,845 318,159
Deferred income taxes 997,619 --
----------- -----------
Total current assets 18,809,918 11,243,385
Property, plant, and equipment, net 4,121,188 4,613,412
----------- -----------
Total assets $22,931,106 $15,856,797
=========== ===========
20
DECEMBER 31
2002 2001
----------- -----------
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of capital lease obligations $ 121,742 $ 145,552
Notes payable -- 1,700,000
Notes payable with related parties 500,000 300,000
Accounts payable:
Trade 2,161,660 2,147,366
Related parties 30,000 47,667
Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on
uncompleted contracts 3,430,826 1,691,447
Accrued warranty and losses 492,953 460,253
Accrued salaries and wages 1,134,954 866,204
Accrued job costs 4,437,398 1,240,828
Income tax payable 358,012 47,627
Other accrued liabilities 1,071,246 728,356
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities 13,738,791 9,375,300
Capital lease obligations, less current maturities 82,020 109,755
Long-term debt with related parties 1,500,000 1,500,000
Deferred income taxes 378,480 --
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock, $.20 par value:
Authorized shares - 10,000,000
Issued and outstanding shares - 4,401,625 880,325 880,325
Additional paid-in capital 900,292 900,292
Retained earnings 5,451,198 3,091,125
----------- -----------
Total stockholders' equity 7,231,815 4,871,742
----------- -----------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $22,931,106 $15,856,797
=========== ===========
See accompanying notes.
21
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Statements of Earnings
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
2002 2001 2000
------------ ------------ ------------
Earned revenue $ 40,856,807 $ 27,182,583 $ 30,646,114
Cost of earned revenue 31,512,251 20,415,764 23,799,532
------------ ------------ ------------
Gross profit 9,344,556 6,766,819 6,846,582
Selling, general, and administrative
expenses 5,916,328 5,140,256 5,315,851
Research and development 368,378 420,931 625,466
------------ ------------ ------------
Operating profit 3,059,850 1,205,632 905,265
Other (income) expense:
Interest income (33,755) (4,387) (3,236)
Interest expense 277,544 721,105 574,053
Other (22,824) 65,548 (2,815)
------------ ------------ ------------
220,965 782,266 568,002
------------ ------------ ------------
Income before income taxes 2,838,885 423,366 337,263
Income tax expense 478,812 152,428 6,260
------------ ------------ ------------
Net income $ 2,360,073 $ 270,938 $ 331,003
============ ============ ============
Net income per common share $ .54 $ .06 $ .08
============ ============ ============
Weighted average common shares
outstanding 4,401,625 4,401,625 4,401,625
============ ============ ============
See accompanying notes.
22
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL
------------------------ PAID-IN RETAINED
SHARES AMOUNT CAPITAL EARNINGS
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Balance at December 31, 1999 4,401,625 $ 880,325 $ 900,292 $2,489,184
Net income -- -- -- 331,003
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Balance at December 31, 2000 4,401,625 880,325 900,292 2,820,187
Net income -- -- -- 270,938
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Balance at December 31, 2001 4,401,625 880,325 900,292 3,091,125
Net income 2,360,073
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Balance at December 31, 2002 4,401,625 $ 880,325 $ 900,292 $5,451,198
========== ========== ========== ==========
See accompanying notes.
23
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Statements of Cash Flows
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
2002 2001 2000
----------- ----------- -----------
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income $ 2,360,073 $ 270,938 $ 331,003
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 1,059,407 1,063,158 1,100,086
Deferred taxes (619,139) -- --
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable (1,941,383) 1,630,967 1,943,358
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of
billings on uncompleted contracts (1,484,332) 119,522 (480,783)
Inventories 17,227 262,805 (392,675)
Prepaid expenses and other, net (23,686) (182,035) 58,170
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 3,837,537 1,071,692 (1,984,757)
Income tax payable 310,385 47,627 8,260
Billings in excess of costs and estimated
earnings on uncompleted contracts 1,739,379 (369,259) (3,177,718)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 5,255,468 3,915,415 (2,595,056)
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures (567,183) (329,558) (655,226)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash used in investing activities (567,183) (329,558) (655,226)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net (repayments) borrowings under line of
credit agreements (1,700,000) (5,275,755) 3,328,800
Proceeds received from related parties 200,000 4,100,000 --
Principal payments on borrowings from related
parties -- (2,300,000) --
Principal payments under capital lease obligations (51,545) (60,971) (79,186)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (1,551,545) (3,536,726) 3,249,614
----------- ----------- -----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents 3,136,740 49,131 (668)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 96,939 47,808 48,476
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $ 3,233,679 $ 96,939 $ 47,808
=========== =========== ===========
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW
INFORMATION
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest $ 277,544 $ 721,105 $ 574,053
Income taxes $ 787,567 $ 8,300 $ 260
NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of equipment under capital leases $ -- $ 145,694 $ --
See accompanying notes.
24
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements
December 31, 2002
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
The Company's major operations are in the design and manufacture of electronic,
mechanical, and computerized engine and engine accessory test equipment and the
design, equipping, and construction of engine test facilities, wind tunnels, and
other aerodynamic test facilities. In addition, the Company provides
aeropropulsion component testing and vehicle aerodynamic testing services.
Minnesota ASE, LLC owns 51% of the Company. Celsius Inc. owns 29% of the
Company. See Note 10.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original
maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
USE OF ESTIMATES
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial
statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those
estimates.
REVENUE RECOGNITION
Income on long-term contracts generally is recognized using the
percentage-of-completion method. On contracts where the percentage-of-completion
method is used, revenue is recognized for a portion of the total contract
revenue, in the proportion that costs incurred bear to management's estimate of
total contract costs to be incurred, commencing when progress reaches a point
where experience is sufficient to estimate final results with reasonable
accuracy. Earnings and costs on contracts are subject to adjustment throughout
the terms of the contract, and any required revisions are made in the periods in
which revisions become known. Provision is made for the full amount of
anticipated losses in the period in which they are determinable. On certain
after-service contracts, the Company recognizes revenue on a completed contract
basis.
25
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts
represent revenues recognized on contracts for which billings will be presented
in accordance with contract provisions. Such revenues are generally expected to
be billed and collected within one year.
INVENTORIES
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (determined by the first-in,
first-out method) or market.
EARNINGS PER SHARE
Net income per share of common stock is computed by dividing net income for the
year by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the
year. The Company has only common stock outstanding; therefore, basic and
diluted earnings per share are the same.
WARRANTY POLICY
The Company's warranty policy generally provides for one-year coverage on
defective equipment due to faulty design, workmanship, or nonconformity to
specifications. Estimated warranty costs are recorded when revenues are
recognized.
LONG-LIVED ASSETS
Impairment losses are recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when
indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated
to be generated by those assets are less than the assets' carrying amount.
DEPRECIATION
Property, plant, and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated over their
estimated useful lives of three to 40 years using straight-line and accelerated
methods. Depreciation expense includes the amortization of capital lease assets.
26
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The following methods and assumptions were used in estimating the indicated fair
values of financial instruments:
Cash and cash equivalents: The carrying amount approximates fair value
because of the short maturity of those instruments.
Short-term and long-term debt: The fair value is estimated based on current
rates offered for similar debt, which approximates carrying value.
Foreign currency contracts: The fair values of foreign currency contracts
(used for hedging purposes) are estimated by obtaining quotes from banks.
INCOME TAXES
The Company accounts for income taxes under the liability method. Deferred
income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the
carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and
the amounts used for income tax purposes.
DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING
The Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 133,
Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, during the first
quarter of 2001. In doing so, the Company did not incur any material transition
adjustments.
The Company uses foreign currency forward exchange contracts to offset the
effect of exchange rate fluctuations on certain foreign currency denominated
contracts. All derivatives are recognized on the balance sheet at their fair
value. The fair value of existing contracts is not material.
RECLASSIFICATION
Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current period
presentation.
27
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
2. CONTRACTS IN PROCESS
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
2002 2001
----------- -----------
Costs incurred on uncompleted contracts $42,710,435 $35,094,586
Estimated earnings thereon 8,903,346 12,635,018
----------- -----------
Total billable on uncompleted contracts 51,613,781 47,729,604
Less billings applicable thereto 48,683,381 44,544,157
----------- -----------
$ 2,930,400 $ 3,185,447
=========== ===========
Included in the accompanying balance sheet under the
following captions:
Costs and estimated earnings in excess of
billings on uncompleted contracts $ 6,361,226 $ 4,876,894
Billings in excess of costs and estimated
earnings on uncompleted contracts 3,430,826 1,691,447
----------- -----------
$ 2,930,400 $ 3,185,447
=========== ===========
The Company is a contractor/subcontractor on various U.S. federal
government-related firm fixed-price contracts. The negotiated firm, fixed price
is subject to downward readjustment if it is subsequently determined that the
cost data submitted by the Company is erroneous.
CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK
At December 31, 2002, the Company had certain concentrations of credit risk with
approximately $2,850,624 of unbilled charges and approximately $1,577,380 of
accounts receivable from two customers, which are partially secured by letters
of credit.
28
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
3. INVENTORIES
Inventories consist of the following:
DECEMBER 31
2002 2001
------------ ------------
Materials and supplies $ 843,181 $ 965,594
Projects-in-process 360,525 255,339
------------ ------------
$ 1,203,706 $ 1,220,933
============ ============
4. PROPERTY, PLANT, AND EQUIPMENT
DECEMBER 31
2002 2001
------------ ------------
Land $ 486,105 $ 486,105
Buildings 3,025,460 3,025,460
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment 9,037,999 8,648,346
Wind tunnels and instrumentation 3,226,459 3,130,182
Building improvements 1,569,780 1,488,527
------------ ------------
17,345,803 16,778,620
Less accumulated depreciation (13,224,615) (12,165,208)
------------ ------------
Property, plant, and equipment, net $ 4,121,188 $ 4,613,412
============ ============
5. NOTES PAYABLE
On September 25, 2001, the Company entered into new financing arrangements to
replace its former credit line. The Company's new bank agreements, which expire
in September 2003, are asset-based collateral arrangements, with the funds
available under these agreements determined by the available securable assets at
any point in time, up to a maximum of $6,000,000 in operating funds and
$3,000,000 of letter of credit funds. At December 31, 2002 and 2001, $-0- and
$1,700,000 were outstanding under the operating funds and $2,351,000 and
$1,300,000 under the letter of credit portions of the agreements, respectively.
29
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
5. NOTES PAYABLE (CONTINUED)
The bank agreement contains covenants that require the Company to maintain
certain financial ratios. The Company is in compliance with these covenants
since inception and remains in compliance with these covenants as of December
31, 2002.
The Company also obtained a $1,500,000 three-year term loan from Celsius Inc.,
which is due September 2004. The loan bears interest at 8% and is subordinated
to debt issued under the banking agreement. This loan is collateralized by a
third-party pledge by Minnesota ASE, LLC of the shares of ASE purchased by
Minnesota ASE, LLC from Celsius Inc. Celsius Inc. has also agreed to continue to
hold certain existing bank guarantees until maturity that were previously
provided to certain of the Company's customers. The Company has provided an
indemnification agreement to Celsius Inc. to secure Celsius Inc.'s interest in
the above items.
On September 25, 2001, Minnesota ASE, LLC loaned the Company $2,600,000 in order
to supplement bank financing. The maturity date was January 11, 2002 and the
loan interest rate was equal to the bank's base rate plus .25%. The Company
repaid $2,300,000 prior to December 31, 2001. The remaining $300,000 has been
converted to a note bearing interest at 8% and does not have a stated due date.
During 2002, Minnesota ASE, LLC loaned the Company an additional $200,000 to
supplement bank financing in the form of a note bearing interest at 8% with no
stated due date.
During 2002 and 2001, the average borrowings on bank lines of credit were
$420,000 and $5,830,000, respectively, with weighted average interest rates
during the year of 4.7% and 8.7%, respectively.
6. INCOME TAXES
During the fourth quarter of 2002, the Company reversed previously established
tax valuation allowances of $546,000, as management concluded that certain tax
assets were realizable. The remaining valuation allowance relates to the
uncertain realizability of the net state tax operating loss carryforward and
state tax credits due to imminent expiration dates and limitations under Section
382 of the Internal Revenue Code due to changes in ownership.
30
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
6. INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
Through September 25, 2001, the Company was included in the consolidated federal
income tax return of Celsius Inc. The Company's income tax provision was
calculated and presented on a separate return basis. Upon the closing of the
acquisition of 51% of the Company's stock by Minnesota ASE, LLC, Celsius Inc.
owned less than 80% of the Company and, accordingly, no longer includes the
Company in its consolidated federal income tax return. In the third quarter of
2001, in conjunction with that transaction, the Company recorded income tax
expense of $100,000 to reduce its income tax receivable from Celsius Inc. as a
result of the termination of the tax sharing agreement. Also, as a part of the
termination of the federal tax sharing agreement with Celsius Inc., the Company
and Celsius Inc. agreed to prorate the total 2001 federal tax liability based on
the relative time periods of ownership during 2001.
The components of income tax expense for the years ended December 31 are:
2002 2001 2000
----------- ----------- -----------
Current $ 1,098,000 $ 152,000 $ 18,000
Deferred (619,000) -- (12,000)
----------- ----------- -----------
$ 479,000 $ 152,000 $ 6,000
=========== =========== ===========
Total income tax expense differs from taxes computed by applying the United
States statutory federal income tax rate as follows:
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
2002 2001 2000
--------- --------- ---------
Income taxes at 34% $ 965,000 $ 144,000 $ 115,000
State taxes, net of federal benefit 8,000 7,000 4,000
Effect of net operating loss
carryforward and valuation allowance (546,000) (101,000) (118,000)
Termination of tax sharing agreement -- 100,000 --
Other 52,000 2,000 5,000
--------- --------- ---------
$ 479,000 $ 152,000 $ 6,000
========= ========= =========
31
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
6. INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED)
Significant components of the Company's deferred tax liabilities and assets are
as follows:
DECEMBER 31
2002 2001
----------- -----------
Current deferred tax assets (liabilities):
Contract-related costs $ 345,000 $ 352,000
Warranty costs 144,000 148,000
Vacation accrual 216,000 180,000
Inventory and receivable reserves 315,000 286,000
Net operating loss carryforward 19,000 37,000
Other (30,000) (5,000)
Tax credit carryforwards 101,000 108,000
----------- -----------
Total current deferred tax assets 1,110,000 1,106,000
Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities:
Tax over book depreciation 379,000 448,000
----------- -----------
Total deferred tax liabilities 379,000 448,000
----------- -----------
Net deferred tax asset 731,000 658,000
Valuation allowance (112,000) (658,000)
----------- -----------
Net deferred taxes $ 619,000 $ --
=========== ===========
The Company also has a net state tax operating loss carryforward of
approximately $943,000 which will expire beginning in the year 2008 to the
extent not utilized.
7. LEASE OBLIGATIONS
The Company has capitalized leases for facilities and equipment which expire
through 2006. The capitalized cost at December 31, 2002 and 2001 was $986,577
less accumulated amortization of $775,994 and $666,162, respectively.
Amortization on capital leases is recorded as part of depreciation expense.
The Company also has a number of operating lease agreements primarily involving
manufacturing and warehouse space and office equipment, which expire on various
dates through 2007. Total rental expense under operating leases for occupancy
and equipment was approximately $103,000, $160,000, and $217,000, for 2002,
2001, and 2000, respectively.
32
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
7. LEASE OBLIGATIONS (CONTINUED)
Following is a schedule of future minimum lease payments:
CAPITAL OPERATING
LEASES LEASES
-------- --------
Year ending December 31:
2003 $129,052 $ 49,156
2004 35,045 34,257
2005 35,045 21,135
2006 20,442 4,116
2007 -- 343
-------- --------
Total minimum lease payments 219,584 $109,007
========
Less amount representing interest 15,822
--------
Present value 203,762
Less principal amount due currently 121,742
--------
$ 82,020
========
Included in the $129,052 capital lease payment in 2003 is the $95,000 purchase
option payment to the Port Authority of Saint Paul for the 181 East Florida
Street facility.
8. CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS
Guarantees of approximately $4,270,975 were outstanding at December 31, 2002 to
various customers as bid bonds or in exchange for down payments or warranty
performance bonds.
9. RETIREMENT SAVINGS PLAN
The Company has a Retirement Savings Plan (the Plan) which qualifies under
Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code and covers all employees. Members of
the Plan who have completed at least 12 consecutive months of service, during
which they have worked at least 1,000 hours, are eligible for the employer
matching contribution. Contributions up to 6% of the employees' compensation are
matched at a rate of 50% by the Company. Company contributions to the Plan for
the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001, and 2000 were $282,000, $260,000, and
$269,000, respectively.
33
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
10. RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
On September 25, 2001, Minnesota ASE, LLC acquired 2,245,000 shares of common
stock of Aero Systems Engineering, Inc. from Celsius Inc., a subsidiary of Saab
AB, representing 51% of the outstanding shares. Celsius Inc. retains a 29% stock
interest in the Company. See Note 5 for a description of related party financing
arrangements.
Through September 25, 2001, Celsius Inc. and its affiliated companies and, after
September 25, 2001, Minnesota ASE, LLC, provided certain administrative support
services to the Company, and the Company is charged a fee for such services.
Such fees with affiliates are summarized as follows:
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
2002 2001 2000
-------- -------- --------
Interest expense $ 39,000 $137,000 $150,000
Administrative charges 141,000 63,000 50,000
11. SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Company operates primarily in one business segment relating to engine and
aerodynamic test facilities. The Company's operations are structured to achieve
maximum overall corporate objectives. As a result, significant
inter-dependencies and overlaps exist among the Company's operating units.
Revenues by geographic area are summarized as follows:
2002 2001 2000
----------- ----------- -----------
United States $17,948,724 $12,956,374 $16,578,706
Foreign countries 22,908,083 14,226,209 14,067,408
----------- ----------- -----------
$40,856,807 $27,182,583 $30,646,114
=========== =========== ===========
34
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
11. SEGMENT INFORMATION (CONTINUED)
The Company had three customers accounting for 20%, 19%, and 10% of revenues
during the year ended December 31, 2002, three customers accounting for 36%,
19%, and 11% of revenues in the year ended December 31, 2001, and three
customers accounting for 28%, 23%, and 15% of sales in the year ended December
31, 2000.
12. QUARTERLY RESULTS (UNAUDITED)
Summary data relating to the results of operations for each quarter of the years
ended December 31, 2002 and 2001 are as follows:
THREE MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31 JUNE 30 SEPTEMBER 30 DECEMBER 31
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
2002
Earned revenue $ 8,927,000 $ 10,973,000 $ 9,442,000 $ 11,515,000
Gross profit 1,811,000 2,453,000 2,031,000 3,050,000
Net income 193,000 525,000 408,000 1,234,000
Net income per common
share $ .04 $ .12 $ .09 $ .28
2001
Earned revenue $ 5,739,000 $ 6,093,000 $ 5,709,000 $ 9,642,000
Gross profit 1,343,000 1,646,000 1,684,000 2,094,000
Net (loss) income (283,000) (96,000) 7,000 643,000
Net (loss) income per
common share $ (.06) $ (.02) $ .00 $ .14
35
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
12. QUARTERLY RESULTS (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)
In the fourth quarter of 2002, the Company reversed previously established tax
valuation allowances of $546,000, as management concluded that certain tax
assets were realizable. See Note 6.
The increase in revenue and income during the fourth quarter of 2001 was due to
the resumption of normal activities on the Singapore wind tunnel project after
the receipt of the export license and to the fact that several other new
projects achieved the 10% revenue and margin recognition threshold during the
quarter.
Third quarter 2001 includes income tax expense of $100,000 related to
termination of the tax allocation agreement. See Note 6.
36
ITEM 9 - CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON
ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
PART III
ITEM 10 through ITEM 13
Items 10 through 13 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are omitted because the
Company intends to file on or before April 25, 2003 a definitive proxy statement
conforming to Schedule 14A involving the election of directors. Certain
information set forth in such proxy statement is hereby incorporated by
reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K as Items 10, 11, 12, and 13 of
Part III.
ITEM 14 - CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures - The term "disclosure controls
and procedures" is defined in Rules 13a-14(c) and 15d-14(c) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act). These rules refer to the controls and other
procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to
be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files under the Exchange Act is
recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within required time periods. The
Company's Chief Executive Officer and the Company's Chief Financial Officer have
evaluated the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures as of a
date within 90 days before filing this annual report (the Evaluation Date), and
they have concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, such controls and
procedures were effective at ensuring that required information will be
disclosed on a timely basis in our reports filed under the Exchange Act.
Changes in Internal Control - We maintain a system of internal accounting
controls that are designed to provide reasonable assurances that our books and
records accurately reflect our transactions and that our established policies
and procedures are followed. For the period ended December 31, 2002, there were
no significant changes to our internal controls or in other factors that could
significantly affect our internal controls.
PART IV
ITEM 15 - EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS
ON FORM 8-K
(a)1. Financial Statements
The financial statements and notes thereto are set forth in the Index to
Financial Statements filed as Item 8 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
37
(a)2. Financial Statement Schedules
All schedules have been omitted, as the required information is not
present or not present in amounts sufficient to require submission of the
schedules or because the information required is included in the financial
statements or notes thereto.
(a)3. Exhibits
Exhibits 99.1 (Certification of Chief Financial Officer) and 99.2
(Certification of Chief Executive Officer).
(b)3. Reports on Form 8-K
On October 17, 2002, the registrant filed a Form 8-K report to announce an
agreement with Goldsmith Agio Helms to assist the Company in exploring
strategic alternatives.
On February 4, 2003, the registrant filed a Form 8-K report to file a
press release announcing the year end 2002 financial results.
38
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
(Registrant)
March 12, 2003 By /s/ Charles H. Loux
- ---------------------------- ---------------------------------
Date Charles H. Loux, President and Chief
Executive Officer
March 12, 2003 By /s/ Steven R. Hedberg
- ------------------------ ---------------------------------
Date Steven R. Hedberg, Chief Financial
Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and
in the capacities and on the dates indicated:
March 12, 2003 /s/ Charles H. Loux
- ---------------------------- --------------------------------------
Date Charles H. Loux, President and Chief
Executive Officer, Director
March 12, 2003 /s/ Richard A. Hoel
- ---------------------------- --------------------------------------
Date Richard A. Hoel, Chairman of the
Board
March 12, 2003 /s/ A. L. Maxson
- ---------------------------- --------------------------------------
Date A. L. Maxson, Director
March 12, 2003 /s/ Dr. Leon E. Ring
- ---------------------------- --------------------------------------
Date Dr. Leon Ring, Director
March 12, 2003 /s/ James S. Kowalski
- ---------------------------- --------------------------------------
Date James S. Kowalski, Director
39
March 12, 2003 /s/ Thomas L. Auth
- ------------------------- -------------------------------------
Date Thomas L. Auth, Director
March 12, 2003 /s/ Mark D. Pugliese
- ------------------------- -------------------------------------
Date Mark D. Pugliese, Director
March 12, 2003 /s/ Patrick J. Donovan
- ------------------------- -------------------------------------
Date Patrick J. Donovan, Director
40
CERTIFICATIONS
I, Charles H. Loux, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Aero Systems
Engineering, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by
this annual report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows of
the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual
report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and
have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that
material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within
those entities, particularly during the period in which this annual
report is being prepared;
b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls
and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date
of this annual report (the "Evaluation Date"); and
c) presented in this annual report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our
evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;
5. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on
our most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit
committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the
equivalent functions):
a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal
controls which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to
record, process, summarize, and report financial data and have
identified for the registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in
internal controls; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or
other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's
internal controls; and
41
6. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this
annual report whether there were significant changes in internal controls
or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls
subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any
corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material
weaknesses.
Date: March 4, 2003
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
By: /s/ Charles H. Loux
------------------------------
Charles H. Loux
President and CEO
42
CERTIFICATIONS
I, Steven R. Hedberg, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Aero Systems
Engineering, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue
statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to
make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by
this annual report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial
information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material
respects the financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows of
the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual
report;
4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for
establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and
have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that
material information relating to the registrant, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within
those entities, particularly during the period in which this annual
report is being prepared;
b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls
and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date
of this annual report (the "Evaluation Date"); and
c) presented in this annual report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our
evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;
5. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on
our most recent evaluation, to the registrant's auditors and the audit
committee of registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the
equivalent functions):
a) all significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal
controls which could adversely affect the registrant's ability to
record, process, summarize, and report financial data and have
identified for the registrant's auditors any material weaknesses in
internal controls; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or
other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's
internal controls; and
43
6. The registrant's other certifying officers and I have indicated in this
annual report whether there were significant changes in internal controls
or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls
subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any
corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material
weaknesses.
Date: March 4, 2003
Aero Systems Engineering, Inc.
By: /s/ Steven R. Hedberg
---------------------------------
Steven R. Hedberg
CFO, Secretary and Treasurer
44