Written question asked by Paul Keetch (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 12 July 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 23 July 2002. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Tuesday, 23 July 2002 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, which elements of (a) watchkeeper and (b) the Future Offensive Air Strategy the Government intends to procure through the European Technology Acquisition Programme. (Holding answer 17 July 2002).

Answer: Mr. Keetch: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence which elements of (a) watchkeeper and (b) the Future Offensive Air Strategy the Government intend to procure through the European technology acquisition programme. [70628] Dr. Moonie: [holding answer 17 July 2002]: The European technology acquisition programme (ETAP) is a collaborative technology development programme related to combat air systems. Its aim is to sustain and develop generic European capabilities over the next two decades. Although United Kingdom decisions on which technologies to pursue under ETAP will take account of our Future Offensive Air System project, it is not aimed at a specific equipment, nor is it intended as a means of procuring equipment.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 70628; 389 c904W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Defence equipment Procurement Military aircraft Watchkeeper WK450 European technology acquisition programme
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk