US firm Bristow Group to run UK search and rescue

Ministers have awarded the contract to run the service for 11 years to the Bristow Group, according to reports last night.

An announcement, ending 70 years of operations by the RAF and Royal Navy, was expected to be made before the stock market opens today.

The exact value of the deal has not been confirmed, but is believed to be in the region of £3bn. It will run from 2015 to 2026. Texas-based Bristow was the last bidder standing for one part of the contract and beat Scotland-based rival Bond Helicopter for the other half.

Both firms have operations in the North Sea oil industry which involve the transfer of workers to rig plaforms.

The distinct yellow RAF Sea King helicopters and grey and red Navy equivalents were due to retire from service in 2016 and the upkeep costs and investment to extend their life has been deemed too expensive.

The privatisation of search and rescue services has been a long-running project, however, critics worry that by shifting it out of the hands of the military, the government will sap the RAF of training opportunities.

Bristow will operate the service using the Sikorsky S-92 and Augusta Westland 189 helicopters. It is understood the technology is so advanced the US State Department had to approve its use in the UK. Features include infrared and thermal imaging cameras, high illumination lighting to make winching easier and long-range fuel tanks.

Two of the four Sikorsky S-92 helicopters that will service the contract for Northern Scotland have arrived in Scotland and have begun training flights.

A Department for Transport spokesman said last night: “We are due to make an announcement soon.”