Written question asked by Ben Chapman (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 September 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 October 2003. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Monday, 6 October 2003 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will make a statement on Lynx replacement at RNAS Yeovilton.

Answer: Mr. Ben Chapman: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on Lynx replacement at RNAS Yeovilton. [131232] Mr. Ingram: The Surface Combatant Maritime Rotorcraft, which is planned to fulfil the role currently undertaken by Lynx HMA Mk3 and Lynx HMA Mk8 based at RNAS Yeovilton, is provisionally planned to enter service later this decade. The project is presently in the assessment phase, in which the capability offered by the Westland Helicopters Ltd. Future Lynx proposal is being evaluated. The outcome of this assessment will result in a decision on the procurement of a replacement for Lynx early in 2004.

Secondary information