Written question asked by Lord Gilbert (Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Astor of Hever (Conservative) on Wednesday, 24 November 2010.

Armed Forces: Aircraft

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Astor of Hever on 9 November (WA 46), how they define interoperability in the context of A400M aircraft.

Answer: Interoperability is achieved though compliance with international standards of ground and cargo handling, irrespective of the actual aircraft type operated. In addition, there will be joint exercises and cross tasking with allies. Loading of the A400M will be by standardised cargo ground handling equipment currently used by military and civilian operators across the globe. The A400M will also comply with all appropriate NATO interoperability standardisation agreements (STANAGs) including international standard cargo restraint systems and cargo pallet size. This will allow cargo handling to be undertaken with both foreign military and civilian cargo handlers worldwide, under the supervision of the onboard RAF loadmasters.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 4019; 722 c329-30WA
Session: 2010-12
Related items: Armed Forces: A400M
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Standardisation A400M aircraft
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk