So this seems to indicate a new medium helicopter to replace Puma - and by process of elimination Gazelle, I dunno Bell 212, possibly SAS Dauphins in the relatively short term.Given the continued relevance of Rotary Wing capabilities to delivering the Integrated Operating Concept and the
make-up of the in-service fleet, the UK MOD values operational independence alongside integration with allies. In
practice this means we need access in the UK to the know-how to support and upgrade our fleets to respond quickly to
changing threats and operational needs. To maintain this capability cost effectively we aim to consolidate our fleet, initially through procuring a new Medium Helicopter by the middle of the decade to replace the Puma and in due course three other helicopter types.
We anticipate that our other main helicopter platforms (Merlin, Wildcat, Chinook and latest Apache) will remain in-service until next generation technologies and unmanned systems start to augment or replace these more conventional systems. We will work in partnership with industry to ensure we can maximise the operational outputs of these fleets through innovative commercial support contracts
Then "next generation technologies" at least for Merlin.
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.u ... _FINAL.pdfAcross NATO, most nations will be modernising or replacing aging Rotary Wing platforms around the 2040s with an interest in transitioning to the next generation platform technologies. This future market offers the UK an opportunity to work with allies and
industrial partners to explore future requirements, including the potential for co-development. To this end, the UK is taking a lead in NATO through the Next Generation Rotary Craft Capability project.
The my uninitiated eye this looks, as mentioned previously, like a quickfire AW149 buy on the cards just to stop the lights from going out in Yeovil.