Somerset leaders urge Government to confirm New Medium Helicopter timeline
Somerset Council leaders are urging the Government to provide clarity on when it will award the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) contract, warning that continued delays are creating uncertainty for thousands of workers in Yeovil.
The Leader of Somerset Council, Bill Revans, and the Member of Parliament for Yeovil, Adam Dance, have jointly written to the Secretary of State for Defence requesting an update on the national procurement process.
Leonardo Helicopters in Yeovil is the UK’s only onshore helicopter manufacturer and is currently the sole bidder for the NMH programme.
The company has already submitted its final offer, which is due to expire in March 2026.
Jobs and regional impact
The Yeovil site plays a significant role in the local and regional economy. Leonardo contributes an estimated £320 million annually to the region and directly supports around 3,300 jobs.
Council leaders say uncertainty over the contract timeline is affecting not only the workforce but also local suppliers and organisations involved in defence planning.
In their letter, they are seeking clarity on when a decision will be made so that businesses and employees can plan with confidence.
Call for clarity
Cllr Bill Revans said:
“We recognise the importance of the aerospace sector to Somerset and the role the Yeovil site plays in supporting skilled employment."
"We have written to the Secretary of State to request clarity on the timing of the NMH decision so that local organisations and the workforce can plan with confidence.”
The letter will be sent to the Ministry of Defence and has been opened for additional signatures from Somerset councillors, signalling cross-party concern about the impact of further delays.
While there has been no indication that the contract will not proceed, local leaders say a clear timetable is essential to protect jobs and ensure stability within Somerset’s aerospace and defence sector.