Yeovil-based helicopter manufacturer Leonardo UK (www.uk.leonardocompany.com) , which changed its name from AgustaWestland at the start of this
year, has recorded an increase in its turnover and pre-tax profits. New contracts — including an agreement toprovide support for Royal Navy helicopters — are expected to lead to further growth in the future. The company, which employs about 7,300 people in the UK, is owned by Italian giant Leonardo-Finmeccanica.

According to recently filed accounts, the company’s pre-tax profits increased from £105.1 million in 2014 to £112.1 million in 2015, while its turnover increased from £1.25 billion to £1.26 billion. In total, the company delivered 36 aircraft last year. The directors said: “With an order book of £3.8 billion, together with adequate funding and long-term support contracts, the company is well placed to develop its people, products and processes.” The company’s manufacturing base in Yeovil began operating in 1915, and it has been producing helicopters for more than 60 years.