On a visit to Portsmouth, Prime Minister David Cameron has announced significant government investment in the UK’s defence capabilities in the region, including a major service support contract that will sustain 450 jobs. 
The Ministry of Defence has signed a £420m contract with Boeing for the in-service support of the Chinook helicopter, saving the taxpayer over £150m. Having played a vital role in operations in Afghanistan, the contract will be for five years and the fleet will be maintained in Fleetlands, Gosport, and other technical support provided from RAF Odiham and sites across the UK.
Chinook is the UK’s only military heavy lift helicopter, able to transport up to 54 troops or ten tonnes of supplies. The contract will support the RAF’s fleet, which will be 60 strong by early 2017 and includes the new Mark 6 helicopters.
Welcoming the deal, the Prime Minister said:
“The Chinook support contract represents significant value for money for what is a very capable and versatile support helicopter, protecting UK interests at home and abroad. This will sustain 450 jobs and save the taxpayer over £150m.
“As part of our long term economic plan, we are making major defence investments in areas like Portsmouth and today’s announcements demonstrate our commitment to this great city and region.”
