Helicopter Support Services Framework Agreement (2025-2029)

NRW is seeking to award a Four-year framework for the supply of helicopter support services for

firefighting, reconnaissance during fires and post fire damage assessment, and to assist flooding

incidents. At this early stage, NRW is keen to hear from skilled and experienced contractors with suitable equipment to consider a range of options to provide an efficiency and cost effective service.

NRW is carrying out pre-tender market engagement with contractors interested in providing helicopter service to support the FRS where a fire has become well established and/or is out of control on the land we manage or neighbouring land where conditions pose a threat to our land. NRW may occasionally through this framework support firefighting on other public bodies land e.g. National Parks. The helicopter may also be used at fire sites for reconnaissance during fires and post fire damage assessment.

• The number and extent of the wildfires each year will determine the support NRW will require. This is impacted by the weather conditions during the peak wild fire period, (March to August). Due to this unpredictability, NRW does not guarantee any work under this framework.
• Firefighting will require local onsite conditions to be assessed and then the accurate application of water along the leading edge of the fire (fire front) unless directed otherwise by the FRS.
• Filling of the “bambi bucket” or similar will take place from the nearest water source to the fire aiming for the minimal time between applications of water on the fire.
• NRW are considering either single supplier or multiple supplier options and engagement with contract recourse will help understand the risks, opportunities and limitations for both options.

Contractors operating across Wales are encouraged to get in touch to discuss the work and contract opportunities in their local areas. Contractor input is strongly encouraged so NRW can put in place efficient procurement that works well for all parties. During this open pre-tender market engagement period contractors are invited to:

• Attend a face-to-face meeting with NRW Procurement and Project staff (various locations available)
• Attend an online MS Teams meeting with NRW Procurement and project staff