Cheltenham’s MP, Alex Chalk, has today welcomed the announcement of the Ministry of Defence’s £271 million deal with Leonardo Helicopters to support the UK’s fleet of world-leading Wildcat helicopters. The deal, which will see local firms - GE Aviation and Pennant International Group - benefit from supply chain contracts, will safeguard 500 jobs in total.
Commenting on the news, Mr Chalk said: ‘‘I welcome the MoD’s £271 million deal with Leonardo Helicopters to support our fleet of world-leading Wildcat helicopters. This will safeguard highly skilled jobs in the Cheltenham area, including at GE Aviation and Pennant. Wildcat is one of the world’s most advanced helicopters and an important part of the ten-year £178 billion plan to provide our Armed Forces with the kit they deserve.’’
See MOD press release for more information (https://www.gov.uk/government/news/271m-wildcat-helicopter-support-deal-sustains-500-uk-jobs)