Aviation News – Announced on 8 August 2025. The contract, which was placed in July 2025, will see the UK Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) organisation award a five-year Fleet Helicopter Support Unit (FHSU) agreement to Dorset-based small and medium enterprise (SME) HeliOperations.
Under the agreement, HeliOperations will provide operational and logistical support to the Fleet Helicopter Support Unit, ensuring availability and readiness for training and operational tasks. The scope of the contract is expected to include maintenance, crew training, engineering support, and associated logistics for the Royal Navy’s helicopter assets within the FHSU remit.
HeliOperations, headquartered in Portland, Dorset, specialises in rotary-wing support, training, and operational services for both military and civilian clients. The company has built a reputation for supplying experienced crews and technical expertise to defence forces worldwide.
A DE&S spokesperson said the award reflects the UK Ministry of Defence’s commitment to engaging with SMEs as part of its broader industrial strategy. “Partnering with companies like HeliOperations not only delivers specialist capability but also supports the UK’s regional economies,” the spokesperson noted.
HeliOperations Managing Director welcomed the announcement, saying the contract would allow the company to continue its close partnership with the Royal Navy while sustaining local jobs in Dorset.
The five-year deal is set to commence later in 2025, with work to be carried out at HeliOperations’ facilities and in coordination with Royal Navy units across the UK.
Photo Rob Vogelaar
