UK MoD Secures 3,300 Jobs with £1 Billion Helicopter Deal with Leonardo

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded Leonardo a £1 billion (approximately $1.3 billion) contract for 23 new medium helicopters (NMH), bolstering the UK Armed Forces’ capabilities and securing thousands of skilled British jobs. The deal, announced on March 2, 2026, will see Leonardo build the latest generation AW149 helicopters at its Yeovil facility, known as the “Home of British Helicopters.”

Consolidating Helicopter Capabilities

The New Medium Helicopter program aims to streamline the British forces’ helicopter fleet by consolidating roles currently performed by three different types of aircraft into a single, versatile platform. The AW149 will replace the retired Royal Air Force Pumas and take on several medium transport roles.

Investment in UK Industry and Innovation

This contract cements Yeovil’s position as a global center for Leonardo’s military helicopter production and exports, potentially unlocking up to £15 billion in UK exports over the next decade. The deal secures approximately 3,300 British jobs across the supply chain and preserves crucial defense skills and expertise.

Proteus: A Step Towards Autonomous Flight

Alongside the NMH contract, the MoD is also investing in the Proteus program, the UK’s first autonomous rotary wing uncrewed air system. Developed in collaboration with the Royal Navy, Proteus recently completed its first flight. The agreement also explores the potential for integrating crewed helicopters with autonomous systems in the future.

AW149 Helicopter Specifications

The AW149 is a twin-engine, medium-lift military helicopter with a maximum take-off weight of 8.6 tons. Key features include:

• Engines: Two General Electric CT7-2E1 engines (2,000 horsepower each)
• Main Rotor: Five-bladed
• Capacity: Up to 16 fully equipped military personnel or 18 passengers
• Maximum Speed: Up to 165 knots (approximately 305 km/h)
• Range: Approximately 500 nautical miles (approximately 930 km), extendable with additional fuel tanks
• Lifting Capacity: External load hook (2.7 tons), internal lifting capacity (up to 2.85 tons)

The AW149 is suitable for a range of missions, including medical evacuation and troop transport.

Looking Ahead

Roberto Cingolani, CEO and General Manager of Leonardo, emphasized the importance of the UK industrial base to the company’s international strategy and competitiveness. The contract not only strengthens the UK’s defense capabilities but also positions it as a leader in uncrewed and autonomous systems technology.