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 by Staff Writers London (UPI) Jul 28, 2011
The British government is boosting production, research and development of helicopters with more than $52 million of public financing. The stimulus was announced by Secretary of State for Business Vince Cable during a visit to AgustaWestland's Yeovil facility, where design and development is taking place for the new AW169 light intermediate commercial helicopter. The new aircraft is a diversification for the Yeovil plant, which previously focused on production military aircraft. The investment includes a $35.9 million loan on market terms to assist production of the AW169. A total of $16.3 million in research-and-development grants have also been delivered through the Technology Strategy Board Scheme. The grants are aimed at boosting research and development in advanced rotorcraft, benefiting small- and medium-sized enterprises in the supply chain and universities that train the next generation of engineers and technicians. "Britain has a long and accomplished history of aircraft production and I'm pleased that (the) announcement has opened the next chapter in that history," Cable said. "By bringing design, development and part of the production of the AW169 to Yeovil, AgustaWestland is making a huge vote of confidence in the expertise of Britain's engineers and the supply chain that already supports their operations here. "This investment shows how important advanced manufacturing is to our economy and will make sure that the next generation of engineers benefit from having a world-class research, design and development capability right here in the Southwest," he said. The country's The Aerospace Growth Partnership program, which includes representatives from across the sector, is examining how to boost exports and expand the number of highly skilled jobs available in the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, a $2.28 billion Regional Growth Fund and Local Enterprise Partnerships are boosting private sector expansion in places location such as Yeovil. The AW169 is a new civil commercial helicopter, the first in its class for more than 20 years. The three Technology Strategy Board grants are for separate projects. AW Yeovil along with its partners in academia and the supply chain will work to develop new technologies in helicopter blades, transmission systems, avionics and flight trials. The Technology Strategy Board is a business-led government body that works to create economic growth by ensuring that Britain is a global leader in innovation. Sponsored by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, the Technology Strategy Board brings together business, research and the public sector, supporting and accelerating the development of innovative products and services to meet market needs, tackle major societal challenges and help build the future economy.
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