Facebook users and communities across the UK will be pleased to hear that the National Police Air Service (NPAS) has announced a major step forward in modernising its air support capabilities, with a new order for seven state-of-the-art Airbus H135 helicopters.
The order, confirmed on 12 March 2025, marks the first phase of a comprehensive fleet renewal programme, ensuring the UK’s police air support remains at the cutting edge of operational effectiveness and public safety.
The deal was secured through a Framework Contract with BlueLight Commercial, confirming Airbus Helicopters as the exclusive supplier of helicopters for NPAS for up to six years.
Boosting Airborne Policing Nationwide
The seven new H135 aircraft, set to be delivered starting in 2027, will begin replacing the current ageing fleet, much of which has been in service for over 13 years since NPAS was first formed by consolidating aircraft from individual police forces.
“With over 100 calls for air support each day, the National Police Air Service plays a unique and valuable role in saving lives, disrupting criminality and protecting communities,” said NPAS Chief Operating Officer and Accountable Manager Chief Superintendent Vicki White.
“We very much look forward to working with Airbus on this exciting project and anticipate receiving the first of our seven new aircraft in 2027.”
The new helicopters will be equipped with Airbus’ advanced Helionix avionics system, which improves operational safety and reduces pilot workload through cutting-edge technology. One of the aircraft will initially serve as a training platform to help NPAS pilots transition to the new system.
A Continued Partnership with Airbus
Airbus Helicopters has been a long-standing partner of NPAS since its inception.
“We are extremely proud to have been the sole provider of NPAS’ helicopters since its formation and we greatly appreciate the continued confidence it is showing by awarding Airbus Helicopters its first fleet renewal contract,” said Richard Atack, Interim Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK.
“It is a great honour for us to continue playing this critical role in the nation’s security.”
NPAS: Supporting Policing Across the UK
NPAS currently operates 16 H135s and four H145 helicopters from 14 air bases, providing air support to 43 police forces across England and Wales. The current fleet includes some of the most intensively used police helicopters in the world, with Airbus Helicopters UK providing ongoing maintenance and support.
The new additions will help NPAS continue to deliver vital support, from search and rescue operations and pursuit tracking, to crime disruption and major incident response.
A Proven Workhorse in the Sky
Globally, the Airbus H135 has proven itself as a versatile and reliable platform. With more than 1,440 aircraft in service worldwide, the H135 fleet has accumulated over 7.5 million flight hours, serving over 320 customers across various sectors.
As the UK continues to invest in advanced policing technology, the new helicopters will further enhance NPAS’s role in keeping communities safe from the skies.
For more information on the NPAS fleet upgrade and public safety initiatives, visit npas.police.uk.
