In application of our criteria for government-related entities, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services continues to view Netherlands-based European Aeronautic Defence and Space Co. N.V. (EADS) as being of "limited importance" to its government minority owners, France, Germany, and the Spain. We likewise view the link between EADS and these respective governments as "limited." As a result, and in line with our criteria, we assess the likelihood of extraordinary government support as "low." Consequently, we add no rating uplift to the stand-alone credit profile of 'a-'. Our assessment of EADS' link and importance to its owner governments has not changed following a proposed change in the company's shareholder structure. Strong competitive positions in most of the group's businesses, notably for large
