Turboméca Arriel

Helicopter engine manufacturer Turbomeca is planning to axe around 50 jobs at its factory in Segensworth, Hampshire, UK.

The proposed plans come after the company said it will close a factory in Monroe, US, putting more than 100 jobs at risk.

The latest job cuts are in response to the challenging business environment caused by the recession.

"I recognise this proposal will be unsettling for our employees, but I will be doing my utmost to ensure we fully support those affected."

As part of the plan, the company will move repairing operations of Arriel engines to its other locations and 56 full-time employees in the division will lose their jobs.

Turbomeca UK CEO Federic Fourciangue said: "The review of our UK operations is being made as part of a wider, global programme to ensure we are best placed for the next stage in our development.

"I recognise this proposal will be unsettling for our employees, but I will be doing my utmost to ensure we fully support those affected."

The company said that it started detailed consultations with the employees earlier this month and will make every effort to place those affected elsewhere across its operations.

Turbomeca spokesman was quoted by Portsmouth News as saying: "Turbomeca UK will continue to provide excellent customer service through its existing support and maintenance activities, as well as the repair and manufacturing in the UK, thereby securing the future of the remaining 75% of the local workforce."


Image: A sectioned Turbomeca Arriel turboshaft engine. Photo: courtesy of Stahlkocher.

Defence Technology