A £165 million contract has been awarded to Leonardo to maintain the Royal Navy’s fleet of Merlin helicopters, bolstering national security and stimulating economic growth in the UK. The deal will sustain 200 jobs at Leonardo’s Yeovil helicopter facility in Somerset and an additional 800 jobs across the UK supply chain. In line with the government’s Plan for Change, the agreement highlights the defence sector’s role in driving growth and security across the entire nation.
The fleet covers 30 Merlin Mk2 maritime patrol helicopters and 24 Merlin Mk4 amphibious and battlefield lift aircraft. The versatile helicopters play a critical role in submarine hunting, search and rescue operations, anti-submarine and anti-surface support, and humanitarian relief efforts. Additionally, the Merlin fleet provides airborne surveillance and troop transport capabilities, contributing to the Royal Navy’s operational efficiency and readiness.
As the prime contractor for maintenance, Leonardo will work in collaboration with Lockheed Martin and SERCO as key sub-contractors. Nigel Colman, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters UK, emphasized the significance of supporting the Merlin fleet and the future focus on the Rotary Wing Enterprise (RWE) agreement to revolutionize support across the entire UK rotary fleet.
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The contract showcases the government’s dedication to sustaining cutting-edge defence capabilities, supporting the workforce, and utilizing defence as a catalyst for economic progression. This aligns with the commitment to fortify Britain’s future and enhance its security through the Plan for Change initiative.
Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, highlighted the pivotal advantage the Merlin helicopters provide to the Royal Navy, underscoring the investment’s contribution to maintaining advanced defence capabilities and generating employment opportunities across the UK.
The agreement signifies a significant step towards ensuring the longevity and readiness of the Merlin fleet, fortifying the UK’s strategic defence infrastructure and boosting economic vitality in various regions.