Swann highlights "world-class facilities" at Aldergrove in Commons

Robin Swann MP has pressed the Government on the importance and opportunity that is available at Aldergrove.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Swann questioned the Ministry of Defence on how it intends to fill the capacity gap in medium-lift helicopters. The inquiry follows the final fly-past of three RAF Pumas at Aldergrove on 26 March last year, which marked the end of an era for helicopter operations.

Mr Swann asked the Minister what urgency is being applied to secure the "full utilisation" of the site, formerly known as Joint Helicopter Command Aldergrove.

In response, the Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard MP, acknowledged the persistent advocacy from the South Antrim MP, stating: "The hon. Gentleman and I have had a number of conversations about Aldergrove, and I suspect we will continue to do so."

The Minister confirmed that the upcoming Defence Investment Plan would detail a new mix of "crewed and uncrewed" capabilities, including autonomous systems, to maintain the UK's lift capacity.

Commenting after the exchange, Robin Swann MP said:

"Aldergrove has a long and proud history as a strategic hub for our Armed Forces, but since the Pumas took their final flight last March, there has been a notable gap in medium-lift capacity.

"While I welcome the Minister’s confirmation that Aldergrove remains a key part of our ongoing conversations, we need a clear commitment to fully utilise the world-class facilities we have here in South Antrim. Through either traditional crewed aircraft or new autonomous systems, the priority must be ensuring Aldergrove remains at the heart of our national defence infrastructure."