Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by David Kidney (Labour). It was answered on Monday, 27 March 2006 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Combat Identification

Question: I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. Is he aware that David Clarke was 19 when he died in Iraq three years ago last weekend? David's tank was hit by a shell fired by another British tank, but obviously that is not the only incident of so-called blue on blue during the conflict in Iraq. Does my right hon. Friend agree with my summary of the NAO report that the Ministry of Defence is doing the right work on combat identification and has the right plan of action for the future? However, the report advises the Department to undertake that work with much more urgency. Does he agree that it would be a fitting tribute to David and all the brave troops who have died in Iraq in such incidents if we completed that work quickly?

Answer: I know that my hon. Friend takes a close interest in the matter, and I am only too aware of his constituent's age. The board of inquiry into the Challenger incident made recommendations in eight specific areas, including operational doctrine and training and procedures, and they have all been accepted and followed up. However, on the issue of combat identification, it takes time to ensure that there is interoperability and compatibility between allies. If we develop new technical solutions to deal with the problem, we must ensure that they stand the test of time, are robust and meet specific needs. Anyone who understands the issue, as my hon. Friend does, knows that it is not just about technical solutions but about situational awareness and dealing with the human factor. Lessons on training and approach have had to be learned from the tragic incidents that have taken place, and they will clearly help us to improve in all those areas.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 444 c540
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons chamber
Subjects: Armed forces Armed conflict Casualties Iraq Identification friend or foe systems
Link: View this Oral question on www.publications.parliament.uk