Yeovil helicopter factory Leonardo wants £1 billion government contract

Progress has been made in a Yeovil-based helicopter manufacturer’s negotiations for a new government contract worth £1 billion. Yeovil MP Adam Dance was pleased to announce that his letter seeking assurances from the government had an encouraging response, with a contract award anticipated in 2025.

Leonardo Helicopters is the sole bidder for the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) contract, with the Yeovil-based manufacturer employing around 8,500 people across the UK. Celebrating the new assurances from the government and his meeting with Unite convenor Ben Clarke, Adam Dance said: “It was a pleasure to meet Ben [Clarke, Unite’s convenor at Leonardo in Yeovil] and discuss the incredible work being done at Leonardo. We both share a passion for supporting this vital employer in Yeovil and ensuring its success for the benefit of the local economy and the wider South West region.

“These assurances are encouraging news for Leonardo and the people of Yeovil. The Government’s commitment to the NMH programme demonstrates confidence in the capabilities and expertise of Leonardo’s workforce.”

The Liberal Democrat MP continued: “Leonardo is at the heart of our community, and its success brings economic benefits across Yeovil and beyond. My fellow Liberal Democrat MPs and I will continue to keep the pressure on the Government to ensure this vital contract is delivered.

“As we move towards 2025, I pledge to do everything I can to support a successful contract award. The NMH programme is not just about helicopters—it’s about jobs, innovation, and securing Yeovil’s place as a leader in the aerospace industry.”

There had been concerns about the contract’s progress after what Unite’s general secretary described as the previous government’s “incompetence and indecision”. Earlier this month, Unite union general secretary Sharon Graham said: “It is essential that the government commits to building its new helicopter programme with Leonardo in Yeovil. These are highly skilled workers and a further delay in awarding this contract would have disastrous consequences for the long-term future of this factory.

“We have had the government’s statement of intent for the defence sector – now we need to see some action. The UK’s defence workers are critical to the country’s national security. They were let down by the previous government’s combination of incompetence and indecision. Now Labour needs to step up to the plate and make sure that these jobs and skills remain in the UK.”

Ben Clarke said: “For over 100 years, Yeovil has been the beating heart of British helicopter design and manufacturing. This site isn’t just a workplace – it’s a legacy of innovation and craftsmanship. We need the government to recognise that sustaining this legacy is vital for our national interests, both economically and strategically.”

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