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The UK Army is preparing to purchase US-made Black Hawk helicopters, which may jeopardize thousands of jobs in British defense, particularly at Yeovil's helicopter factory. Delays in a £1bn MoD contract for a new UK military aircraft have raised concerns over job security.

Richard Tice of Reform UK highlighted the Army’s preference for American helicopters over UK-made options. The MoD has not confirmed the contract with Leonardo, the sole bidder for the new helicopters intended to replace the Puma fleet.

Delays could result in 3,000 job losses at Leonardo's facility, impacting the regional supply chain. The NMH programme aims to provide up to 44 medium-lift helicopters, but uncertainty surrounding the contract and a £28bn funding shortfall has led to concerns about the future of UK military capabilities.