NORTH Wales’ iconic yellow Sea King helicopters look set to be grounded, according to plans given by the UK’s new search and rescue provider.
RAF Valley’s search and rescue operations are set to be operated by the private investment group Soteria, who were awarded the contract as part of a reorganisation of the service by the Ministry of Defence.
As part of their bid, Soteria pledged to replace the Sea Kings, which have been used by the RAF since 1978, with the more modern Sikorsky S92 helicopters.
The new helicopters are 30% faster than the current Sea Kings, whilst also equipped with specialist modern equipment to aid search and rescue operations.
Quentin Davies, the junior defence minister, expected the changes to improve the quality of service provided by search and rescue teams across the country.
“The new service will bring together the Ministry of Defence and Maritime and Coastguard Agency search and rescue helicopter provision into one highly effective and harmonised service under one single contract. “ he said.
The initial plans also stated that the military personnel behind the nation’s search and rescue operations would be reduced from 240 workers to 66, with the remaining positions being taken up by civilian staff.
The MoD are still in negotiations finalising the deal, with an official announcement expected later this year.
Soteria are expected to begin introducing the changes from 2013, with no indication yet as to how the service from Anglesey will be affected.