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 Thursday, 18 July 2002. It was answered by Lord Moonie (Labour) on Thursday, 18 July 2002 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment has been made of the X45 in order to fulfil the requirements of the unmanned element of the Future Offensive Air Strategy; and if he will make a statement. - (Holding answer 17 July 2002).

Answer: Mr. Keetch: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment has been made of the X-45 in order to fulfil the requirements of the unmanned element of the future offensive air strategy; and if he will make a statement. [70627] Dr. Moonie: [holding answer 17 July 2002]: We are at the early stages of evaluating ways in which unmanned aircraft could contribute to our future offensive air system (FOAS) capability. As part of our continuing dialogue with United States colleagues, we have discussed the X-45 vehicle. But we have made no formal assessment of the X-45; and nor have we yet taken any decisions about developing or acquiring specific unmanned aircraft in relation to FOAS.

Secondary information