Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 7 December 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 19 December 2000. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Tuesday, 19 December 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what guidelines his Department have set Raytheon for the integration of satellite-based global positioning system guidance into the RAF's Paveway II laser-guided bomb system; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what guidelines his Department have set Raytheon for the integration of satellite-based global positioning system guidance into the RAF's Paveway II laser-guided bomb system; and if he will make a statement. [142174] Dr. Moonie: Enhanced Paveway II bombs from Raytheon company have been selected to meet the all-weather precision guided bombing capability which was announced in the House on 24 July as one of the immediate enhancements being made in the light of our analysis of operations in Kosovo. The company has been set accuracy requirements that the systems must achieve in all weathers, as well as a delivery schedule for the supply of equipment. The company has also been asked to demonstrate basic compatibility with the host aircraft in advance of contract signature.

Secondary information