UK DE&S awards support contract to HeliOperations

The UK Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) has awarded a £41m ($54m) helicopter support services contract to HeliOperations, a Dorset-based small-medium enterprise.

This five-year agreement will create 15 new jobs and sustain 80 existing roles.

Under the Fleet Helicopter Support Unit (FSHU) contract, HeliOperations will provide two advanced AW139 helicopters.

These helicopters, which will replace a single Dauphin N2, will be used in training for UK and Nato operations globally.

HeliOperations will also offer Navy Command with technical support and maintenance services, as well as supply pilots and crew members.

DE&S Air Rotary& Uncrewed Air Systems director Mark Langrill said: “The agreement will provide the Royal Navy with modern, reliable helicopter support, whilst supporting skilled jobs and economic growth in South-West England, reinforcing our commitment to working with small, high-end British enterprises that deliver for our Armed Forces.” 

The contract has the potential for extension until 2036 with a total value of up to £68m.

The services provided under this contract are crucial for the transfer of personnel and equipment to warships and vessels at sea. They will offer maritime rotary wing support for Fleet Operational Standards and Training (FOST) as well as additional aviation tasks.

The medium-sized twin-engine AW139 helicopters, produced by Leonardo Helicopters, are designed to offer operational advantages such as increased payload, extended range, enhanced pilot situational awareness, and improved safety measures like sustained flight capability post a single engine failure.

The FSHU contract aligns with the UK government’s Plan for Change mission that aims to stimulate economic growth through job creation in the South West region.

HeliOperations CEO Steve Gladston said: “The FHSU contract is an important milestone for HeliOperations as part of our continuing development and growth. It provides the opportunity for further expansion of our fleet of AW139 helicopters, development of our infrastructure and greater opportunities for our staff whilst providing the Ministry of Defence with an efficient and effective service for the delivery of personnel and materiel to the fleet.”

The FSHU contract has an anticipated transition period leading up to an expected initial operating capability in spring 2026.

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