The Ministry of Defence has affirmed an enhanced collaboration with Leonardo, which will involve the AW149 being chosen under the New Medium Helicopter initiative and Yeovil being established as a forthcoming hub of expertise for self-governing rotary wing technologies.
This accord is integral to what the government describes as a comprehensive recalibration of its industrial relationships, consistent with the Strategic Defence Review and the Defence Industrial Strategy.
According to an official communique, “the fresh agreement forged by the Government with Leonardo will furnish the UK Military Services with 23 new mid-capacity rotorcraft (NMH) – which possess the potential to operate synergistically with uncrewed aircraft – and lays the groundwork for subsequent military international orders to be manufactured domestically, with an augmented workshare for the UK exceeding 40%. Approximately 20 nations express a demand for new medium-lift helicopters. Combined with Leonardo’s other helicopters, global sales for NMH could yield over £15 billion in foreign sales during the coming decade.”
The AW149 is set to satisfy the demand for the New Medium Helicopter, superseding numerous outdated systems with a singular aircraft model capable of executing the entire spectrum of defence assignments. This airframe is engineered to provide personnel conveyance, support specialized missions, and fulfill broader tactical functions, while also assisting with humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions.
The integration of functions into one aircraft type aims to rationalize the rotary wing fleet, enhancing efficiency and mission adaptability, concurrently alleviating the complexities involved in maintaining three distinct airframe models.
The collaboration also carries a substantial economic aspect. The agreement, say the MOD, creates an avenue for forthcoming export orders of the AW149 to be produced within Britain, thereby broadening domestic employment contribution and bolstering the enduring sustainability of the Yeovil facility. The initiative has the potential to sustain up to 3,900 positions, signifying an approximate 20 per cent growth, with Leonardo declaring that over 3,300 roles in Yeovil and 12,000 across the broader UK procurement network will be backed.
Nigel Colman, Managing Director of Helicopters UK at Leonardo, stated:
“We applaud the choice to grant the New Medium Helicopter agreement to furnish mid-capacity rotorcraft to the Ministry of Defence, as well as the sustained allocation of capital towards Proteus – our self-governing unmanned rotorcraft aerial system currently being co-developed with the Royal Navy.
“Leonardo is dedicated to supplying the UK Armed Forces with a globally acclaimed mid-capacity helicopter, utilizing our advanced AW149 model that will benefit our military personnel for numerous ensuing years.
“The Administration’s acquisition of the AW149, coupled with sustained capital in self-governance systems, will sustain over 3,300 employment opportunities in Yeovil, recognized as the Epicenter of British Rotorcraft manufacturing, alongside 12,000 positions throughout the British procurement network.”
Defence Secretary John Healey MP stated:
“This military expenditure comprehensively benefits the nation. It fortifies our military, safeguards thousands of proficient UK employment opportunities, and establishes significant foreign trade prospects. It represents a strong affirmation in the UK manufacturing sector, UK employees, and UK inventiveness. This Government’s comprehensive agreement establishes Yeovil as the esteemed hub for Leonardo’s worldwide defense rotorcraft manufacturing, constructing premier-grade helicopters for our military and partner nations globally for numerous future years. It supports UK employment and national safety today, while positioning Britain as a leader in unmanned systems, technological advancements, and inventive solutions for the future.”
Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated:
“Within an unpredictable global environment, we are supporting Britain’s premier defence industry to both safeguard the UK and stimulate financial expansion. This momentous collaboration not only sustains UK employment and national safety today, but also places Britain and its partner nations as pioneers in the subsequent evolution of military and self-governing technologies for the future.”