According to an official statement from the government, a fresh contract for the Royal Navy will support approximately 200 positions in Somerset.
Over 50 Royal Navy helicopters will undergo servicing as part of a £165 million contract extension with Leonardo Helicopters, safeguarding approximately 1,000 jobs within the United Kingdom.
Leonardo, located in Yeovil, serves as the main contractor, with Lockheed Martin and Serco designated as crucial subcontractors.
The Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle, stated: “This investment showcases our steadfast dedication to sustaining advanced defense capabilities that protect us, while also using the defense sector as a catalyst for economic development.”
The Merlin Mk2 helicopters serve mainly as sub-hunters; however, they can also perform search and rescue missions, apprehend drug traffickers, and assist with humanitarian aid distributions.
In addition to positions located in Somerset, this agreement will also help sustain jobs at RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall.
Nigel Colman, the managing director at Leonardo Helicopters UK, stated: “We are incredibly proud to have supplied the United Kingdom’s AW101 Merlin helicopter fleet from our facility in Yeovil, which is known as the heartland for British helicopters.”
Closely collaborating with the Ministry of Defence and Royal Navy, we ensure the Merlin fleet remains well-supported and readily accessible, prepared to take flight at any time and place as needed.
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Related Internet Links
- Ministry of Defence
- Leonardo
