The Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republic (Ministerstvo vnitra) has finalized a key aircraft maintenance and parts supply contract with SAFRAN Helicopter Engines Germany GmbH, Hamburg. The agreement covers the supply of spare parts, jigs, and special tools for Arrius engines, including repairs and complete overhauls of Arrius 2B2 aircraft engines, as well as technical support services for EC135 helicopters. The award, published under notice 660502-2025 in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJ S 193/2025, 8 October 2025), underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining flight safety and readiness across its law-enforcement aviation fleet.
Scope and Contract Overview
The framework agreement, concluded on 22 December 2021 and valid until 31 December 2025, ensures sustained operational capability for the Czech Air Service’s fleet of EC135 helicopters, a vital component in public security, search-and-rescue, and emergency transport missions. The estimated total contract value stands at €4.42 million (excluding VAT), while the specific awarded lot to SAFRAN Helicopter Engines Germany is valued at €117,727.17.
Procurement was carried out through a negotiated procedure without prior publication, justified by technical exclusivity. Under Directive 2014/24/EU and the Czech Public Procurement Act (134/2016 Coll.), the Ministry determined that only the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) could perform the services due to the proprietary nature of the Arrius 2B2 engine systems.
Technical Rationale and Strategic Importance
The Ministry explained that the Arrius 2B2 turboshaft engine - manufactured exclusively by SAFRAN Helicopter Engines, part of the global SAFRAN Group-can only be serviced and overhauled by the OEM or its authorized network. This ensures compliance with airworthiness standards, use of certified parts, and preservation of manufacturer warranties.
Given the EC135’s role in critical operations, maintaining direct OEM support is essential to fleet reliability, safety assurance, and rapid response capability. The decision reflects broader European trends in defence and public-safety aviation procurement, where governments increasingly emphasize lifecycle maintenance partnerships with original manufacturers.
About the Contractor
SAFRAN Helicopter Engines Germany GmbH, headquartered in Hamburg, is a leading maintenance and logistics hub for SAFRAN’s engine portfolio in Europe. The company specializes in repair, overhaul, and technical support for turbine engines powering both civil and government helicopters, including the EC135 series widely used by police and emergency services.
Conclusion
This contract award strengthens the Czech Republic’s aerial operations infrastructure, ensuring continued air support for internal security missions. Through collaboration with SAFRAN, the Ministry of the Interior reinforces its focus on safety, technical precision, and uninterrupted fleet availability - cornerstones of modern government aviation management.
Tags: Czech tenders, Ministry of the Interior Czechia, SAFRAN Helicopter Engines, EC135 helicopter maintenance, Arrius 2B2 engines, aviation procurement, helicopter repair services, defence tenders, contract award, aerospace maintenance.
