DE&S awards HeliOperations £41m Royal Navy helicopter support contract

Above: (left to right) Andy Hooper, DE&S Multi Helicopter Platforms (MHP) Delivery Team, Team Leader, Steve Gladston, HeliOperations, CEO and Richard Garbutt, DE&S Multi Helicopter Platforms (MHP), Type Airworthiness Authority (TAA).
Courtesy DE&S

Through the continued delivery of high-quality helicopter support services, the Fleet Helicopter Support Unit (FSHU) contract will see HeliOperations supporting training for UK and NATO global operations by supplying two state-of-the-art AW139 helicopters along with comprehensive technical support, maintenance, pilots and crew to Navy Command. The new helicopters will replace a single Dauphin N2. 

Operating from Portland from spring 2026, the contract – which has the potential to extend until 2036 and is worth up to £68 million – will enable the transfer of personnel and equipment to warships and vessels at sea, providing maritime rotary wing support to Fleet Operational Standards and Training (FOST) and additional aviation tasks. It will offer operational advantages due to the helicopters’ modern capabilities, enabling the Royal Navy to meet its future requirements. 



Above: An HeliOperations AW139.
Courtesy DE&S

Produced by Leonardo Helicopters, the medium-sized twin-engine AW139 is recognised for its quality in performance, versatility and safety and is considered one of the most capable and adaptable helicopters in its class. AW139s are a modern-day platform offering increased payload and range, pilot situational awareness and enhanced safety such as greater ability to sustain flight post a single engine failure. 

Mark Langrill, Director Air Rotary & Uncrewed Air Systems at DE&S said: “We are delighted to award this contract to HeliOperations. The agreement will provide the Royal Navy with modern, reliable helicopter support, whilst supporting skilled jobs and economic growth in South-West England, reinforcing our commitment to working with small, high-end British enterprises that deliver for our Armed Forces." 

The FSHU contract directly supports the Government’s Plan for Change mission to kickstart economic growth by providing job opportunities in the South West. 

Steve Gladston, HeliOperations CEO said: “The FHSU contract is an important milestone for HeliOperations as part of our continuing development and growth.  It provides the opportunity for further expansion of our fleet of AW139 helicopters, development of our infrastructure and greater opportunities for our staff whilst providing the Ministry of Defence with an efficient and effective service for the delivery of personnel and materiel to the Fleet.” 

HeliOperations is headquartered at the old Naval Air Station of RNAS Portland (HMS Osprey). The company has experienced rapid expansion in recent times and has now established a strong presence across three UK-based locations, beginning with Portland and subsequently opening facilities in Somerton, Somerset and Culdrose, Cornwall. 

Placed in July 2025, the FSHU contract includes a transition period with initial operating capability expected in spring 2026.