Critical Contract Secures 1,200+ UK Jobs for Military Helicopter Maintenance

In a major boost for the UK's defence capabilities and local economies, a new £900 million contract has been awarded to sustain the British military's Apache and Chinook helicopter fleets. This landmark deal will support over 1,200 jobs across the country, reinforcing the crucial role the defence industry plays in driving economic growth and employment.

The contract, awarded by the UK Ministry of Defence, will see Leonardo UK and Boeing Defence UK work together to provide maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade services for the Army's Apache attack helicopters and the RAF's Chinook heavy-lift transport helicopters. These vital aircraft play essential roles in a wide range of military operations, from tactical assaults to disaster relief efforts.

"This contract is a huge vote of confidence in the UK's defence industry and its world-class capabilities," said Jeremy Quin MP, the UK's Defence Procurement Minister. "It will sustain over 1,200 skilled jobs across the country, providing stability and security for workers and their families."

The deal is expected to generate significant economic activity, with the work being carried out at various sites across the UK, including Leonardo's facilities in Somerset and Bedfordshire, and Boeing's site in Gosport, Hampshire. This geographic spread ensures that the benefits of the contract are felt in communities throughout the nation.

"Our Apache and Chinook fleets are the backbone of UK military air power, and this contract will ensure they remain mission-ready for years to come," said Air Vice-Marshal Lyndon Jones, the UK's Assistant Chief of the Air Staff. "The highly skilled workers supported by this deal are vital to maintaining our operational edge and delivering for the nation."

The announcement comes at a critical time for the UK's defence sector, which has faced economic headwinds and supply chain disruptions in recent years. This contract represents a significant vote of confidence in the industry's capabilities and its ability to support the country's strategic priorities.

"This landmark contract is a testament to the skill and dedication of our workforce, who consistently deliver world-class capabilities for the UK Armed Forces," said Steve Giordano, Managing Director of Leonardo UK. "We are proud to play a central role in sustaining these vital helicopter fleets and the thousands of jobs they support across the country."

The new agreement builds on the long-standing partnerships between the UK Ministry of Defence, Leonardo, and Boeing, ensuring the continued operational readiness of the Apache and Chinook platforms for many years to come. This investment in the country's defence infrastructure and industrial base is a clear signal of the government's commitment to supporting the national security and economic prosperity of the United Kingdom.