Written question asked by Gerald Howarth (Conservative) on Monday, 15 September 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 14 October 2003. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Tuesday, 14 October 2003 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, when he expects the A400M to be compatible with the requirements of the proposed Future Rapid Effect System; and how this has been affected by the delays in the assessment phase for the Future Rapid Effect System; what extra costs he expects to incur to the A400M programme to make it compatible with the requirements of the proposed Future Rapid Effect System.

Answer: Mr. Gerald Howarth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) when he expects the A400M to be compatible with the requirements of the proposed Future Rapid Effect System; and how this has been affected by the delays in the assessment phase for the Future Rapid Effect System; [130783] (2) what extra costs he expects to incur to the A400M programme to make it compatible with the requirements of the proposed Future Rapid Effect System. [130775] Mr. Ingram: The requirements for the Future Rapid Effects System (FRES) are still being developed as part of the project's concept phase. Studies are planned for the next phase of the FRES programme to examine coherence with associated programmes including A400M. These studies will ensure that the FRES requirements take into account the need for air portability. The contract for the A400M programme has now been signed. It is not currently expected that there will be any consequent adjustments to it, and therefore no additional costs have been identified.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 411 c125-6W;411 c161W; 130783;130775
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Armoured fighting vehicles Procurement Military aircraft Future rapid effect system A400M aircraft
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk