Somerset leaders seek update on military helicopter contract delays
Leonardo Helicopters awaits decision on £1bn Ministry of Defence contract
Somerset's government representatives are urging the Ministry of Defence to provide updates on the timeline for awarding the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) contract, amidst mounting anxiety over drawn-out procurement processes.
Leonardo Helicopters, based in Yeovil, is the United Kingdom's only onshore helicopter manufacturer and is the solitary contender for the NMH programme.
The firm's final offer, which significantly impacts the regional economy and employment, is set to expire in March 2026.
Council Leader, Bill Revans, and Yeovil MP, Adam Dance, have jointly penned a letter to the Secretary of State for Defence requesting clarity on the anticipated timeline for the contract award.
The delays are reportedly causing uncertainty among Leonardo's workforce and its network of local suppliers and defence contractors.
The letter underscores Leonardo's substantial contribution of £320 million annually to the regional economy and highlights the approximately 3,300 jobs directly supported at the Yeovil site.
Cllr Bill Revans said: “We recognise the importance of the aerospace sector to Somerset and the role the Yeovil site plays in supporting skilled employment. We have written to the Secretary of State to request clarity on the timing of the NMH decision so that local organisations and the workforce can plan with confidence.”
The appeal for transparency also extends to Somerset councillors who are encouraged to add their signatures to the letter addressed to the Ministry of Defence.
The Ministry of Defence has indicated that a decision on securing the UK's last military helicopter factory will be made before the end of March.