Written question asked by James Gray (Conservative) on Thursday, 15 November 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 22 November 2001. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Thursday, 22 November 2001 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what plans he has to sponsor trials of the F35 in connection with developing UK requirements; what trials of the aircraft will take place in the UK; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Gray: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to sponsor trials of the F35 in connection with developing UK requirements; what trials of the aircraft will take place in the UK; and if he will make a statement. [16558] Dr. Moonie: In order to avoid unnecessary duplication and cost, a dingle integrated Future Joint Combat Aircraft/F35 test programme with our US partner is being considered. Under this strategy, the work would be undertaken primarily in the US. UK Test and Evaluation personnel from the Ministry of Defence and QinetiQ would be integrated into the joint test activities. Examination of test programme options reflects best practice under Smart Acquisition in delivering defence programmes to performance, time and cost. In any event, the Joint Strike Fighter prime contractor will be required to demonstrate that the aircraft is compatible with UK aircraft carriers and support infrastructure. This may involve UK based trials.

Secondary information