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Armed Forces: Aircraft

Answer

There is no impact on the standard operational load of weapons on the Tornado GR4 and Harrier GR9 when the temperature in Afghanistan exceeds 25 degrees Celsius. Comparatively, the Tornado is more capable. Its standard load carries more weapons enabling greater flexibility whilst on missions. Specifically: the Tornado GR4 when fitted with the LITENING III advanced targeting pod can carry three Paveway IV weapons, three Brimstone guided missiles and one cannon loaded with 135 rounds of 27 millimetre ammunition. Alternatively, when fitted with the RAPTOR reconnaissance pod the Tornado GR4 can carry two Paveway IV weapons and one cannon loaded with 135 rounds of 27 millimetre ammunition; and the Harrier GR9 when previously on duty in Afghanistan and fitted with the Sniper advanced targeting pod could carry two Paveway IV weapons, two CRV-7 unguided rocket pods (38 rockets total) and one Digital Joint Recce Pod (DJRP). The two CRV-7 Pods could be replaced by two additional Paveway IV weapons; or two Maverick missiles; or one CRV-7 Pod and one Maverick missile respectively.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

3337; 722 c104-5WA

Session

2010-12

Subjects

Peacekeeping operations Temperature Weapons Afghanistan Harrier aircraft Tornado aircraft

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk