Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 12 May 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 25 May 1999. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Tuesday, 25 May 1999 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when he expects to make a decision about the Sonar 2193 programme; and what plans he has for its role in Royal Naval service.

Answer: Mr. Hancock: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to make a decision about the Sonar 2193 programme; and what plans he has for its role in Royal Naval service. [84518] Mr. Spellar: On current plans, we expect to place a contract for the Sonar 2193 upgrade programme by mid-2001. The sonar upgrade will be introduced into service in 2003, and will improve the minehunting performance of the HUNT Class mine countermeasures vessels. In particular it will enhance their effectiveness against modern, stealthy mines.

Secondary information