Airbus Helicopters in the United Kingdom has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult — the U.K.’s leading group of research, development and innovation centers.

This strategic partnership will see both organizations establish a framework under which they will jointly investigate opportunities to work together on future opportunities.

Managing director of Airbus Helicopters in the U.K., Lenny Brown, said: “This agreement marks a significant milestone in the advancement of helicopter manufacturing across the U.K. and underscores the commitment of both organizations to drive innovation and promote the growth of the U.K.’s high-value manufacturing sector.

“Our collaboration with the High Value Manufacturing Catapult will help to foster technological advancements, accelerate the development of cutting-edge manufacturing processes, and enhance the competitiveness of the U.K. helicopter industry.”

Katherine Bennett, CEO of HVM Catapult added: “We are thrilled to join forces with Airbus Helicopters in the U.K. in this exciting partnership. The collaboration will enable us to leverage our capabilities in manufacturing research and development across our seven centers to enhance the competitiveness of the helicopter sector.

“Together, and with support from Innovate U.K., we will push the boundaries of what is possible and shape the future of helicopter manufacturing in the U.K.”

Under the terms of the agreement, both organizations will prioritize three key areas:

Research and development: Such as sustainable aviation fuel, ballistic protection, digital twin and sustainable building projects at the National Composites Centre (NCC) in Bristol, University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) Cymru in Broughton, and CERT in Sheffield; an electrification project on high power batteries with WMG in Coventry; and a ZeroE blade innovation project with the NCC.

Supply Chain Optimization: Including Smart factory studies and virtual design pilot work with AMRC Cymru; rapid prototyping and 3D printing capabilities with the Manufacturing Technology Centre; a contribution by HVM Catapult into a future Airbus Helicopters Rotary Wing Rapid Capability & Development Centre.

Skills Development: Encompassing programs aimed at fostering talent, providing training opportunities, and upskilling the existing workforce to help ensure a sustainable pipeline of individuals who can drive innovation in the helicopters sector.

Based at Oxford Airport, Airbus Helicopters in the U.K. provides the entire U.K. police helicopter fleet; two-thirds of the country’s air ambulance fleet and most of its overall civil helicopter fleet. 

Established and supported by Innovate U.K., the High Value Manufacturing Catapult bridges the gap between business and academia, helping to turn great ideas into commercial realities by providing access to world-class research, development facilities and expertise that would otherwise be out of reach for many businesses in the U.K.

The Catapult is a network of seven research and innovation centers with a combined 25 sites across the U.K.