The UK government has awarded a £1 billion contract to Leonardo (BIT:LDO) for the production of a new generation of military helicopters, safeguarding around 3,300 jobs at the company’s manufacturing site in Yeovil, southwest England.
Under the agreement, Leonardo will deliver 23 medium-lift helicopters for the UK Armed Forces, designed to operate in coordination with unmanned aerial systems, according to government officials.
The contract is also expected to support future export opportunities, with more than 40% of manufacturing activity set to take place at the Yeovil facility. Officials said the programme positions the UK as a potential production hub for additional international orders.
Leonardo had previously cautioned that failure to secure the deal could put the country’s last remaining military helicopter assembly plant at risk.
Defence Secretary John Healey said the agreement would enhance military capability while protecting skilled employment and opening the door to significant export potential for the UK defence sector.
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