UK’s New Medium Helicopter deal finalisation on horizon, alludes Leonardo CEO
Leonardo’s AW149 is the sole option left bidding for the NMH contract. (Photo: Leonardo)
A decision on the UK’s New Medium Helicopter (NMH) programme could be imminent, with Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani seeming to indicate that selection news was due within days.
During the company’s full year 2025 results call on 25 February, Cingolani implied that a verdict on the NMH programme could soon be revealed, noting “one or two days” for clarity on the outcome.
Cingolani hinted that he was “very optimistic” about the programme outcome, despite ongoing delays from the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) to announce a firm decision on the programme.
Leonardo remains the sole bidder for the £1 billion (US$1.3
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
Eurosatory 2026: How are air forces integrating autonomous wingmen into existing fleets?
From mobile launch trailers to ship decks, software and platforms such as Shield AI’s Hivemind and its X-BAT and V-BAT are positioning autonomous systems as a credible force option for militaries priced out of traditional airpower.
-
Eurosatory 2026: Windracers highlights UK drone momentum
Windracers is using Eurosatory 2026 to showcase its ULTRA autonomous cargo aircraft following its selection for a major UK support package for Ukraine and growing government backing for drone operations.
-
India’s AMCA fifth-gen fighter roadmap firms up with private sector push
As a major shortfall in Indian fighter jet capability looms, New Delhi is looking to spread risk and accelerate delivery of its fifth-generation combat aircraft.
-
USAF plans major CCA expansion with new suppliers and billions in funding
US Air Force leaders say open architecture and broader industry participation will help deliver affordable autonomous wingmen capable of overwhelming future adversaries.
-
FCAS future fighter jet collapse: where does Europe’s next-generation air power go next?
While the New Generation Fighter pillar of the Franco-German-Spanish programme is now officially dead in the water, Germany’s ambition to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet remains – with the country serving as a financially attractive potential partner for other programmes.