Written question asked by Gerald Howarth (Conservative) on Tuesday, 25 May 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 June 2004. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Thursday, 10 June 2004 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) when he expects the Typhoon to enter service with the RAF; (2) if he will make a statement on progress on the Typhoon programme.

Answer: Mr. Gerald Howarth: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) when he expects the Typhoon to enter service with the RAF; [176472] (2) if he will make a statement on progress on the Typhoon programme. [176473] Mr. Ingram: Typhoon achieved "type acceptance" in June 2003, triggering the entry to service process. The first RAF aircraft was accepted off contract in December 2003, and to date, six have been delivered. Release to Service, allowing flying under normal RAF procedures, was achieved earlier this month. The aircraft are now engaged in the process of pilot training and operational evaluation to enable Typhoon to be deployed operationally during the second half of the decade. The next step in the procurement process will be the order for the second Tranche of aircraft, and negotiations are in progress.

Secondary information