The Ministry of Defence has issued a transparency notice signalling its intention to award Leonardo UK a contract worth up to GBP 8 million for repair and post-design support services for avionics communications equipment used across the Chinook, Merlin and Wildcat helicopter fleets.
According to the notice published by Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), the contract covers the Elmer Radio and AD120 Avionic Communication Equipment, systems which have been in service since the early 1980s. The planned agreement is expected to run for five years, with the option to extend by a further two years.
The contract is expected to begin on 15 May 2026 and run until 14 May 2031, with an extension option through to 14 May 2033. DE&S stated that the contract is being pursued under a direct award route in line with Section 41 of the Procurement Act 2023, using the “single supplier, technical reasons” justification.
The MOD said Leonardo is the original equipment manufacturer and has supported the equipment since its introduction into service, arguing that only the OEM has access to the required technical documentation, specialist knowledge and spare parts needed to deliver the work. The notice states there are “no other reasonable alternatives” for maintaining the equipment.
The procurement is being handled by the Support Capabilities and Commodities Team within the MOD, with DE&S listed as the contracting authority.
