UK defence deal secures 1,200 jobs with £879 million helicopter contract
Record investment to enhance military readiness
A £879 million contract has been awarded to Boeing Defence UK, supporting more than 1,000 jobs and ensuring the British Army's Apache and RAF Chinook helicopters are maintained and mission-ready.
The deal consolidates support for these vital aircraft under a single agreement, the Rotary Wing Enterprise, marking a first in efficiency and taxpayer value.
Luke Pollard, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, announced the contract during a visit to the Army Aviation Centre in Hampshire, meeting Boeing apprentices and staff.
The agreement supports 700 skilled roles at Boeing Defence UK sites across the UK, including locations such as Middle Wallop, Wattisham, Odiham, Bristol, Gosport, and Yeovil.
Additionally, another 500 jobs are sustained across the supply chain, with 300 roles at StandardAero.
This initiative reflects the UK Government's record defence investment of £270 billion over the current parliament, driving economic growth.
Alongside this, recent contracts awarded by the Ministry of Defence include:
A £1 billion programme for New Medium Helicopters, creating over 3,000 jobs in Yeovil
Half a billion invested in radar systems for Typhoon jets
A £100 million boost for RAF P8 submarine hunting aircraft
A contract with Cambridge Aerospace for new interceptor missiles and launchers
Luke Pollard MP stated,
“From the workshop to the frontline, this investment delivers for our military, for the British people and the British defence industry. Our workhorse Chinooks and lethal Apaches help keep our Armed Forces safe and operating effectively while on deployment."
“This contract shows how we’re ensuring our Armed Forces have the kit and equipment they need to keep Britain safe. We are investing record levels into defence, meaning no return to the hollowed out and underfunded Armed Forces of the past, while making defence an engine for growth."
Boeing Defence UK will provide maintenance, technical services, logistical support, and training for the fleets.
Sir Jeremy Quin, President of Boeing UK & Ireland, remarked,
“This contract highlights the UK Government’s commitment to maintaining a world-class rotary wing capability and strengthening the country’s defence industrial base. It will help ensure our armed forces remain equipped to meet both current and future operational challenges with confidence and resilience."
The UK Armed Forces operate the Apache AH-64E, known for its advanced attack capabilities, and the versatile Chinook helicopter, aiding troop transport, resupply, and casualty evacuation across diverse environments.
This investment underscores the Government's pledge to bolster UK defence jobs, aligning with its largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War, aiming for 2.6% from 2027.