UK helicopter partnership

Airbus Helicopters in the UK has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult, a UK group of research, development and innovation centers.

“The collaboration will enable us to leverage our capabilities in manufacturing research and development across our seven centres to enhance the competitiveness of the helicopter sector,” said Katherine Bennett, CEO of HVM Catapult.

“This agreement marks a significant milestone in the advancement of helicopter manufacturing across the UK and underscores the commitment of both organisations to drive innovation and promote the growth of the UK's high-value manufacturing sector,” added Lenny Brown, managing director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK.

Plans are for the two partners to research sustainable aviation fuel, ballistic protection, sustainable building projects, high power batteries and low carbon aviation, as well as look into improving the supply chain and developing 3D printing capabilities.

Airbus and HVM also want to improve training in the helicopter sector.