Safran Helicopter Engines has achieved a new milestone in its cooperation with the UK Ministry of Defense by signing a contract with the Defense Equipment and Support Agency (DE&S) for the ongoing support of the RTM 322 engines used in the UK’s Merlin helicopter fleet. Navy. This contract, classified as a defense sole resource, is designed to cover a six-year period beginning on April 1, 2024, with options to extend support until the Merlin's retirement date in 2040.
Safran Helicopter Engines' commitment to reliability and spare parts availability during… The previous agreement lasted 11 years It has been a key factor in consistently exceeding engine availability goals. Now, with an agile, production-driven approach, the new contract will allow rapid adaptation to demand, thus maximizing engine availability and mission success.
Operations will continue from Safran's helicopter engine facility in Fareham, UKThe team will provide engine maintenance, technical advice and logistical support to operational units of the Royal Navy. In addition, an on-site field service will be provided, with representatives at Royal Navy Air Stations Yeovilton and Culdrose.
This agreement not only ensures the continuity of more than 30 highly skilled jobs in the UK, but also provides strong confidence for those who operate Merlin helicopters and those who rely on their support.
Keith Bethel, Director of Helicopters at DE&S, expressed confidence in Safran Helicopter Engines’ ability to maintain high service standards. “This contract is not just Guarantees more than 30 job opportunities “It is highly skilled in the UK, but it also gives confidence to those who operate our Merlin helicopters, as well as those who rely on their support, that their engine is being looked after and maintained to the best of its ability.”
Cédric Juppe, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines, highlighted the company’s pride in its partnership with the UK Ministry of Defense and the Royal Navy. “We are extremely proud to support the missions of the UK MoD and Royal Navy and are delighted that the MoD trusts us as the preferred supplier to support the RTM 322 engine until the end of the Merlin helicopter’s service history. We are more committed than ever to the excellent levels of engine availability we have delivered to the Merlin fleet over the current decade thanks to Our dynamic technical and logistics support model “We are excited to continue our long-standing partnership with the UK MoD and look forward to leveraging our excellent capabilities and facilities in the UK.”
This contract not only strengthens the relationship between Safran Helicopter Engines and the UK Ministry of Defence; Ensures operational continuity and reliability of the Merlin helicopter fleet, An important asset for military and search and rescue operations around the world.
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