Uncertainty Over Yeovil Helicopter Factory Raises Fears for Weymouth and Portland Workers

Workers in Weymouth and Portland are facing growing uncertainty as Leonardo Helicopters warns it may close its Yeovil factory unless a major Ministry of Defence contract is confirmed.

The Yeovil site, the UK’s last remaining military helicopter factory, employs around 3,000 people directly, with many staff commuting daily from across Dorset, including Weymouth, Portland and surrounding towns. The potential closure would have a significant knock-on effect for families, supply chains and local businesses across the region.

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Leonardo is the sole bidder for a £1 billion Ministry of Defence programme to supply new medium helicopters. However, the government has yet to award the contract, saying the decision is linked to the wider Defence Investment Plan, which is still being finalised.

The company has warned that without confirmation of the deal, it may be forced to reconsider its long-term presence in the UK. The Yeovil factory has not received a major UK military helicopter contract for 14 years, and Leonardo has indicated that its current offer cannot remain open indefinitely.

For workers in Weymouth and Portland, the uncertainty is deeply personal. Many households rely on the skilled engineering and manufacturing jobs based at Yeovil, with concerns growing about job security and the lack of alternative employment at a similar level in the region.

Local suppliers and small businesses could also be affected if the factory were to close, with fears that the loss of highly skilled roles would impact the wider Dorset and Somerset economy.

Leonardo has said a decision is needed by March 2026 to safeguard the future of the site. Meanwhile, employees, unions and local representatives are calling for clarity and a swift commitment to protect jobs and preserve the UK’s ability to manufacture military helicopters.

As the government prepares to publish its Defence Investment Plan, communities in Weymouth, Portland and beyond will be watching closely, hoping for a decision that secures both local livelihoods and a vital national capability.