Written question asked by Lord Foulkes of Cumnock (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 3 March 1997. It was answered by Lord Soames of Fletching (Conservative) on Monday, 3 March 1997 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: When he expects approval to be given for parachute dropping of Scimitar CVRT vehicles from RAF Hercules aircraft; and if he will list the locations where parachute dropping of Scimitars will be permitted.

Answer: Mr. Foulkes: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects approval to be given for parachute dropping of Scimitar CVR(T) vehicles from RAF Hercules aircraft; and if he will list the locations where parachute dropping of Scimitars will be permitted. [17988] Mr. Soames: There has been no capability for the parachute dropping of Scimitar CVR(T)s since the mid-70s. However, approval for the dropping of Scimitars from RAF Hercules aircraft has been granted for the purposes of trials of a re-engineered parachute delivery system for heavy equipment. The trial drop zone locations are all within the Larkhill/Salisbury plain military training area. The trials are due to conclude later this year. Subject to a satisfactory outcome, the equipment will be dropped on routine airborne exercises at locations judged technically and operationally suitable.

Secondary information