UK Awards £879m Contract to Boeing to Support Apache and Chinook Fleets

The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded a three year £879 million contract to Boeing Defence UK to sustain and support the British Army’s AH‑64E Apache attack helicopters and the Royal Air Force’s CH‑47 Chinook heavy‑lift fleet. The agreement consolidates support for both platforms under the Rotary Wing Enterprise (RWE) framework for the first time, aiming to improve efficiency, reduce duplication, and enhance fleet availability.

According to government and industry statements, the contract secures more than 700 skilled roles across Boeing Defence UK sites in Middle Wallop, Wattisham, Odiham, Bristol, Gosport, Yeovil and other locations in southern England and Scotland. A further 500 jobs are supported across the wider UK supply chain, including approximately 300 positions at StandardAero’s engine maintenance facility in Gosport.

Boeing said the deal strengthens the UK’s long‑term rotary‑wing capability, providing integrated maintenance, engineering, training, supply‑chain management and technical support for both helicopter fleets. The company noted that consolidating support contracts under the RWE will deliver a more efficient service and improve platform readiness.

Defence Readiness and Industry Minister Luke Pollard described the Apache and Chinook as “iconic” aircraft central to UK operations at home and overseas, adding that the investment reflects the government’s commitment to reversing years of underfunding and making defence an engine for economic growth.

The Apache AH‑64E remains the Army’s primary attack helicopter, while the Chinook continues to serve as the RAF’s main tactical transport platform. The new contract ensures both fleets remain mission‑ready as operational demands evolve.