Airbus Helicopters UK Awarded Contract to Support National Police Air Service

Airbus Helicopters UK has been awarded the contract to supply seven new H135 helicopters to support the National Police Air Service (NPAS).

The National Strategic Board has worked in partnership on this Fleet Replacement Programme with BlueLight Commercial, the National Police Air Service, the Home Office, the National Police Chiefs’ Council and the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, to secure this strategic investment.

These state-of-the-art aircraft will replace older models and will provide NPAS with enhanced operational capability and technology, ensuring that the service remains fit for the future.

They will play a critical role in continuing to support policing across England and Wales, keeping communities safe and reducing risk.

Formed in 2012, the National Police Air Service is delivered by West Yorkshire Police and currently operates a fleet of twenty helicopters plus four aeroplanes, providing vital air support capabilities.

John Robins QPM DL, Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police said: “The NPAS project team has been working closely with our partners at BlueLight Commercial, West Yorkshire Combined Authority and the Home Office to secure this strategic investment and award the contract.

“With over 100 calls for air support each day, the National Police Air Service plays a unique and valuable role in saving lives, disrupting criminality and protecting communities.

“The aircraft we currently operate were transferred to NPAS from individual police forces when the national service was formed over 13 years ago.

“We very much look forward to working on this exciting project and anticipate receiving the first of our seven new aircraft into service in early 2027.”

 Lianne Deeming, CEO of BlueLight Commercial said: “This is the culmination of a meticulous three-year collaborative procurement process, involving detailed technical and financial evaluations, which were conducted to ensure investment in advanced technology and innovation, whilst also delivering value for money for the taxpayer”.

Richard Atack, Interim Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters UK said: “We are extremely proud to have been the sole provider of NPAS’ helicopters since its formation and we greatly appreciate the continued confidence it is showing by awarding Airbus Helicopters its first fleet renewal contract. It is a great honour for us to continue playing this critical role in the nation’s security.”