Leonardo Secures Major Contract with UK Ministry of Defence for Apache AH Mk.1 Helicopters

Leonardo is excited to announce a new contract with the UK Ministry of Defence, aimed at delivering comprehensive support and maintenance for the Apache AH Mk.1 Attack Helicopter fleet. This Apache Integrated Operational Support (IOS) contract is valued at approximately £293 million (around €325 million), ensuring the fleet remains operational from April 1, 2019, until the aircraft’s retirement in 2024.

During his recent visit to Leonardo Helicopters’ facility in Yeovil, Defence Minister Stuart Andrew emphasized the importance of the Apache in enhancing battlefield operations for UK and coalition forces in regions such as Libya and Afghanistan. He stated, “This multi-million-pound contract will ensure our Armed Forces continue to benefit from this vital capability as we integrate the latest Apache model into service in 2022.”

Geoff Munday, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters in the UK, expressed his satisfaction with the awarded contract, saying, “We are grateful for the opportunity to support the Apache AH Mk.1 fleet until its planned retirement. The Minister’s visit underscores the unique and exceptional capabilities we offer at our Yeovil facility.”

As the prime contractor for the Apache IOS, Leonardo will work closely with its industrial partners, including Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Longbow International, to provide complete support services. This includes spares provisioning, engineering, depth maintenance, repair, overhaul, and technical assistance for the UK MoD’s Apache AH Mk.1 fleet. At Wattisham Airfield, the British Army’s primary Apache operating base, Leonardo will oversee the Depth Support Unit and workshops, ensuring alignment with the operational demands of the Army Air Corps. Additionally, at the Army Aviation Centre in Middle Wallop, Leonardo will manage Apache aircraft on the flight line, fulfilling the required training hours for the Army.

The Apache IOS programme office, consisting of both industry and Ministry of Defence personnel and located at Leonardo’s Yeovil facility, will effectively manage the IOS contract. This partnership aims to achieve essential aircraft availability while simultaneously reducing lifecycle costs. Furthermore, Leonardo is committed to providing support and training services for the UK MoD’s AW159 Wildcat helicopter fleet under the Wildcat Integrated Support and Training (WIST) contract and for the AW101 Merlins under the Integrated Merlin Operational Support (IMOS) contract.