Direct award planned for helicopter load equipment deal

Britain’s Ministry of Defence plans a noncompetitive £1.34 million amendment to its AmSafe Bridport contract for helicopter underslung-load equipment and airdrop cargo nets. The change would raise the agreement from £17.43 million to £18.77 million excluding VAT, retain its June 2027 expiry, and could be signed from September 30. Officials cite the absence of technically viable alternatives because AmSafe holds the proprietary design data, manufacturing expertise, and qualification evidence required for military airworthiness; switching suppliers would require extensive requalification. The amendment also includes post-design services and renewed documentation, but the transparency notice does not itself confirm an award.