UK Ministry of Defence to Award New Medium Helicopter Contract in 2025
The UK Ministry of Defence has announced plans to award the primary contract for its New Medium Helicopter program in 2025. This significant initiative, valued at £1 billion (approximately $1.2 billion), aims to establish a medium-lift support helicopter capable of replacing the military’s aging rotary-wing fleet, including the Dauphin, Griffin, Puma, and Twin Huey helicopters. This update was provided by Maria Eagle, the British Defence Procurement and Industry Minister, during a recent session in the House of Commons.
Eagle clarified that the competition for the new medium helicopter is currently in the evaluation and approval phase. She expressed optimism about the timeline, stating, “If everything goes well, I anticipate a contract award later this year, subject to all the usual approvals.” This statement underscores the government’s commitment to advancing the program despite previous delays.
Local Industry Impact and Program Timelines
During the Commons meeting, Edward Morello, the Member of Parliament for West Dorset, raised questions regarding the program’s timeline and its potential benefits for local industries and employment, particularly in West Dorset and Yeovil, where Leonardo, the program’s sole bidder, is based. In response, Eagle reassured him, saying, “Some of these programs can take a long time to reach contract. This program, in fact, faced delays in obtaining outline business case approval under the previous Government.”
Eagle expressed her hope that the program would move forward swiftly, indicating that local constituents might benefit from job opportunities related to the new helicopter initiative. This highlights the government’s focus on not only modernizing the military but also supporting local economies.
Overview of the New Medium Helicopter Program
The forthcoming New Medium Helicopter for the UK Armed Forces is designed to operate effectively across various domains, mirroring the capabilities of its predecessors. Beyond mere transport, the helicopter will also support tactical combat missions and humanitarian operations once it becomes operational. The proposal phase outlined London’s goal to develop up to 44 helicopters, along with ground-based cockpit flight simulators and a cabin trainer.
With Leonardo positioned as the sole bidder for this program, the British military is expected to adopt the AW149 airframe as its new platform. Measuring 18 meters (59 feet) in length, the AW149 can accommodate up to 19 personnel. Additionally, the helicopter can be outfitted with multiple rocket launchers and laser-guided missiles, enhancing its operational versatility.
