Vector Aerospace UK announces MRO programme for French Navy Lynx Helicopters.

Vector Aerospace UK, a leading provider of aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, has announced the agreement of a long term contract to provide structural maintenance and technical support for the French Navy's Lynx Mk.4 helicopter fleet. The company's Fleetlands facility in Gosport, Hampshire, has the only main build/repair jig for this aircraft type in the world, making Vector the leading supplier of deep structural repairs on the Lynx platform.

The five year programme, with an additional two year option, could see the first aircraft arrive as soon as December 2014. Vector Aerospace will also support the MRO operations through technical visits to the Lynx bases in France to assist the French Navy's support organisation for the aircraft.

This work follows a previously contracted deep repair task on a single French Navy Lynx carried out in 2013. Vector Aerospace completed the programme within the space of only five months, the aircraft being inducted into the facility in August and returned into service in December; an impressive turnaround time given the extent of the work.

Vector Aerospace has an extensive track record of support for the Lynx platform. The Fleetlands facility has been the sole provider of depth maintenance and modification support to the Royal Navy and Army Lynx fleet for 36 years. This has included all marks of Lynx up to and including the Mk.9A.

"The award of this contract by the French Navy is an important milestone for Vector Aerospace UK", said Managing Director Michael Tyrrell. "The contract further expands Vector Aerospace's support to military operators around the world. Our high standards, reliable work-rate and skilled workforce are amongst the best in the MRO industry and make us a recognised centre of excellence for depth Lynx maintenance".