House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
New Medium Helicopter Update
03 March 2026 · Ministry of Defence
Proposed by Luke Pollard Lab Co-op Plymouth Sutton and Devonport
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The Government has selected Leonardo's AW149 for the New Medium Helicopter procurement.
- The agreement secures 3,300 jobs in Yeovil, Somerset, and includes four training simulators.
- Future international orders will be built in the UK, offering potential export opportunities over 15bn.
Issue summary
The statement updates the House on the selection of Leonardo’s AW149 for the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) procurement requirement.
Action requested
The Government has secured an improved agreement with Leonardo for the NMH acquisition, delivering 23 New Medium Helicopters and four training simulators, securing 3,300 jobs in Yeovil, Somerset. Additionally, the agreement includes future international orders being built in the UK, potential for over £15bn in export opportunities, and increased investment in Proteus, the UK’s first autonomous uncrewed air system.
Key facts
- Leonardo’s AW149 selected for the New Medium Helicopter requirement.
- 23 New Medium Helicopters and four training simulators to be delivered.
- Secures 3,300 jobs at Leonardo Helicopters, Yeovil.
- Increased workshare for the UK above 40% for future military international orders.
- Potential for over £15bn of export opportunities over the next decade.
- Yeovil becomes the global centre of excellence for autonomous helicopters.
- Ministry of Defence to invest further in Proteus, the UK’s first autonomous uncrewed air system.