MOD Awards £33.6 Million H145 Helicopter Support Contract to Airbus
The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded Airbus Helicopters UK a £33.6 million, two-year contract to provide initial in-service support for its new fleet of six H145 helicopters, designated Jupiter HC2 in British service. The contract, managed by Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), follows the original £122 million procurement of the aircraft finalized 18 months ago.
Under this agreement, Airbus will ensure operational readiness, maintenance, and technical support for the Jupiter HC2 helicopters. These aircraft are expected to enhance the UK military’s operational flexibility, including search and rescue, troop transport, and training missions.
The H145 helicopters, manufactured by Airbus, are widely recognized for their twin-engine performance, advanced avionics, and high versatility in military operations. DE&S confirmed the contract aims to maintain the fleet’s availability and extend lifecycle support, crucial for sustaining operational capability.
A spokesperson for DE&S stated that the contract highlights the MOD’s commitment to ensuring long-term reliability of its helicopter fleet while supporting British industry. Airbus will work closely with the MOD to deliver maintenance, technical advice, and spares management over the next two years.
The Jupiter HC2 fleet represents a significant modernization of the UK’s light helicopter capabilities, complementing other rotary-wing platforms in service. This support contract ensures that the new helicopters are mission-ready while reducing potential downtime and operational risk.
Airbus Helicopters UK has previously supplied multiple platforms to the MOD, reinforcing its role as a key partner in supporting British defense aviation.
