Aviation News – The National Police Air Service (NPAS) has officially expanded its air support capability by placing an order for two additional Airbus H135 helicopters, increasing its total fleet renewal program to nine aircraft. This strategic procurement strengthens law enforcement across England and Wales by upgrading key aerial assets used for emergency responses and police operations.
The firm order operates under a long-term Framework Contract established in 2025 with BlueLight Commercial, the specialized procurement agency dedicated to UK policing. Under this exclusive six-year agreement, Airbus Helicopters serves as the sole helicopter provider tasked with modernizing the police force’s airborne fleet. The deal marks a pivotal milestone in replacing aging, heavily utilized twin-engine police aircraft that have served regional forces for over a decade.
This follow-on order follows the arrival of the first two renewal aircraft at Airbus Helicopters’ Oxford facility in April for extensive mission-specific policing customization. Currently, NPAS operates 16 H135 and four H145 helicopters from 14 airbases to support 43 territorial police forces. The ongoing support partnership ensures that these high-demand aircraft maintain exceptional operational readiness while carrying out some of the most intensive police flight operations in the world.
Technically, the modernized H135 platforms feature customized police mission fits alongside Airbus’ Helionix avionics suite, which reduces pilot workload and enhances situational awareness during complex missions. Equipped with high-powered searchlights, thermal imaging systems, and night-vision capabilities, the twin-engine helicopter provides lower noise footprints and exceptional safety standards. These technical capabilities allow aircrews to deliver vital real-time intelligence and tactical support to ground units during critical incidents.
Emphasizing the significance of the development, Chief Superintendent Fiona Gaffney, NPAS Accountable Manager, stated: “These aircraft will provide a modern, resilient and effective capability for policing, supporting our crews as they respond to incidents, assist officers on the ground and protect the public.” She added: “Together with our partners, we are building a fleet that will serve policing and the public for many years to come, ensuring NPAS remains ready to meet the evolving demands of operational policing.”
Looking ahead, the rollout and integration of these modernized aircraft will ensure sustained aerial security, operational resilience, and rapid emergency response capabilities nationwide. Police authorities and regional services must continue to integrate these advanced airborne platforms into daily operations to maximize ground-sky coordination and keep local communities safe.
The acquisition of two extra twin-engine aircraft reinforces NPAS’s long-term initiative to build a state-of-the-art police aviation service. By standardizing on modern Airbus H135 technology, UK law enforcement establishes a reliable aerial backbone capable of addressing evolving crime challenges efficiently. Moving forward, this rejuvenated helicopter fleet will safeguard public safety and deliver critical emergency support for years to come.