The UK’s National Police Air Service (NPAS) has placed an order for an additional two H135s, bringing the total fleet renewal programme to nine aircraft. The first two aircraft from the initial order have already arrived at Airbus Helicopters UK’s facility in Oxford for extensive mission equipment fit out.
The additional firm order comes as part of the framework agreement signed last year with the BlueLight procurement agency which named Airbus as the exclusive supplier for NPAS until 2031.
“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. Programmes of this scale are only possible through the dedication and professionalism of many people working behind the scenes. I would like to thank colleagues across NPAS, Airbus and BlueLight Commercial, whose expertise and commitment have helped bring us to this important point. 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,” said Chief Superintendent Fiona Gaffney, NPAS Accountable Manager speaking about the announcement.
“Building on decades of UK design and customisation expertise, Airbus Helicopters in the UK will play a key role in helping to bring the UK’s police helicopter fleet to a best-in-class standard, equipped with the latest security and policing technology,” added Richard Atack, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK.
NPAS currently operates 16 H135s and four H145s from 14 locations on behalf of the 43 police forces in England and Wales. Airbus Helicopters in the UK additionally provides maintenance and support for the NPAS fleet which includes the most intensively used police helicopters in the world.
The two additional helicopters, are expected to arrive at Airbus Oxford during 2028 for fit out and NPAS specific customisation.
Image: Airbus
