The confirmation that Leonardo in Yeovil has secured the £1bn New Medium Helicopter contract is hugely significant - not just for Yeovil, but for communities across South Somerset and the wider South West, writes Adam Dance MP.
For months, there was real uncertainty around this decision.
I worked tirelessly in Parliament to press the case for awarding the contract.
I secured a Westminster Hall debate, raised the issue repeatedly with ministers, asked formal parliamentary questions, and met with industry leaders to underline what was at stake.
The impact of this decision reaches far beyond one factory.
Leonardo employs more than 3,000 people directly in Yeovil, and thousands more jobs in the supply chain stretch across Somerset, Dorset, and neighbouring counties.
Many families in Chard, Ilminster, and surrounding villages depend on the defence and engineering sector for their livelihoods.
This contract protects those jobs and secures future apprenticeships and training opportunities.
It gives confidence to local businesses that invest, grow, and provide services linked to the sector.
There is also a national dimension.
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The retirement of the Puma helicopters left a clear capability gap for our armed forces.
The AW149 helicopters to be built in Yeovil will restore that capability while strengthening Britain’s defence resilience.
At a time of international instability, maintaining the UK’s ability to design and manufacture advanced defence equipment at home is strategically important.
Sovereign capability matters, particularly in complex sectors such as aviation.
But while the national security case is strong, for many people locally, this decision is about stability and certainty.
It means young people can choose engineering careers knowing there is a future here.
It means families who depend on these skilled jobs can plan ahead with confidence.
There were moments when this contract could easily have slipped away.
That is why sustained pressure was needed.
I made clear to ministers that the South West could not afford prolonged uncertainty.
This decision represents a major boost for our regional economy and a strong endorsement of the skill and dedication of the workforce in Yeovil.
It is a proud moment for our area - and one that shows the value of determined local advocacy.
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