MOD anticipates New Medium Helicopter contract by late 2025
• The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has announced the launch of the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) program, aiming to replace ageing Puma helicopters and other legacy platforms with modern, versatile aircraft.
• The NMH program, launched in February 2024, aims to replace five different aircraft, including the RAF Puma HC2, Army Air Corps Bell 212, and RAF Puma HC2.
• The procurement process is on track, with a contract award expected in 2025.
• The three bidders – Airbus Helicopters UK, Leonardo Helicopters UK, and Lockheed Martin UK – will now compile their bids to be evaluated by Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) in 2025.
• The UK government confirmed that Leonardo Helicopters is the only company to have submitted a tender for the NMH programme.
• The requirement from the MoD was for “up to 44” new rotorcraft for GBP1.2 billion (USD1.5 billion), including five years of initial support, with a contract expected in 2025.
• The new helicopter model will support Defence operations around the globe.
