Growing Fears Over Delayed £1bn Helicopter Contract Threaten Future of Yeovil Factory
A union representing workers at Leonardo, the helicopter manufacturer with a major site in Yeovil, Somerset, has voiced mounting concerns over prolonged delays in awarding a critical £1 billion government contract.
Unite has warned that the UK government's inaction and months of uncertainty are fueling "increasing anxiety" among the 2,800 skilled workers whose livelihoods hang in the balance.
Despite Leonardo being confirmed earlier this year as the sole bidder for the New Medium Helicopter contract, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has stated that no decision is expected until 2025—a timeline Unite says could have devastating consequences.
A Factory at Risk
Unite’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, issued a stark warning about the potential fallout. "These are highly skilled workers, and any further delay in awarding this contract would have disastrous consequences for the long-term future of this factory," she said. "This level of government inertia risks not only hundreds of jobs but also Britain’s strategic manufacturing capabilities."
The Yeovil site, a historic hub of innovation and engineering, faces an uncertain future as employees await clarity on the contract. Union convenor Ben Clarke described the situation as dire: "This site isn't just a workplace—it's a legacy of British craftsmanship and a cornerstone of our national defense strategy. If the government fails to act, that legacy could crumble."
Strategic Vulnerabilities
Experts warn that the delay not only endangers jobs but also poses broader risks to the UK’s defense capabilities. Unite argues that without swift action, the uncertainty could weaken Britain’s standing in a competitive global defense market.
In a parliamentary statement on 26 November, Maria Eagle MP, Minister for Defence Procurement, acknowledged the sensitivity of the procurement process but provided little reassurance. She confirmed that evaluations and approvals would extend through 2025, with no guarantee of a timely resolution.
Countdown to Crisis
The clock is ticking for Yeovil’s workforce and the broader UK defense sector. Unite has called on the government to recognize the urgency of the situation before irreversible damage is done.
With thousands of jobs and the future of a vital industry hanging by a thread, the stakes have never been higher. Without immediate action, workers and their families could face an uncertain and worrying future.