Oxford's Airbus Helicopters signs agreement with High Value Manufacturing Catapult

By Stephen Emerson

24 July 2023

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Airbus Helicopters is based at Oxford Airport

Airbus Helicopters has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult.

This strategic partnership will see both organisations establish a framework under which they will jointly investigate opportunities to work together on future opportunities.

Based at Oxford Airport, Airbus Helicopters in the UK provides the entire UK police helicopter fleet; two-thirds of the country’s air ambulance fleet and most of its overall civil helicopter fleet.

Under the terms of the agreement, both organisations will prioritise research and development, supply chain optimisation and skills development.

Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK, Lenny Brown, said: “This agreement marks a significant milestone in the advancement of helicopter manufacturing across the UK and underscores the commitment of both organizations to drive innovation and promote the growth of the UK's high-value manufacturing sector. Our collaboration with the High Value Manufacturing Catapult will help to foster technological advancements, accelerate the development of cutting-edge manufacturing processes, and enhance the competitiveness of the UK helicopter industry.”

Established and supported by Innovate UK, the Birmingham-based High Value Manufacturing Catapult bridges the gap between business and academia. The Catapult is a network of seven research and innovation centres with a combined 25 sites across the UK.

Katherine Bennett, CEO of HVM Catapult added: “We are thrilled to join forces with Airbus Helicopters in the UK in this exciting partnership. The collaboration will enable us to leverage our capabilities in manufacturing research and development across our seven centres to enhance the competitiveness of the helicopter sector. Together, and with support from Innovate UK, we will push the boundaries of what is possible and shape the future of helicopter manufacturing in the UK."

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By Stephen Emerson

Stephen Emerson is the Managing Editor of The Business Magazine and is responsible for the publication's print publications and online properties including the newly launched Biz News websites in Hampshire and Dorset.

Stephen has been a journalist for 20 years and has worked at local, regional and national publications and led a team which made The Scotsman website one of the fastest growing news sites in the UK with over eight million monthly users.

He has a keen interest in technology, property and corporate finance and telling the stories of the people behind the successful firms in these sectors.