At the ‘Home of British Helicopters’ in Yeovil, Leonardo has installed an initial production capability for its latest generation battlefield helicopter, the AW149. This investment and knowledge transfer is Leonardo’s ‘declaration of readiness’ to support the UK MOD in its requirement to have the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) in-service in 2025, and subsequent export orders. This investment further de-risks Leonardo’s programme and highlights the willingness to support the UK customer now, should the AW149 be selected for the NMH requirement. Leonardo in Yeovil oversees the majority of the AW149’s fuselage design, blade build, and tail transmission.
In establishing this capability, Leonardo has invested in the manufacture and commissioning of jigs, fixtures, tooling, and ground support equipment. Companies from across the UK supply chain were used in the manufacture of the new equipment. Furthermore, the company is investing in the establishment in Yeovil of latest technologies and skills for the manufacture and test of electrical harnesses for the AW149 and other Leonardo products.
Leonardo continues to train Yeovil engineers to specialise in AW149 production, further bolstering the existing engineering, manufacturing skills, and knowledge base.
This press release was prepared and distributed by Leonardo
