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Defence Policy

These procurements are urgent operational requirements; they do not have any impact on FRES, which is an important part of the long-term equipment programme. Obviously, we are examining every aspect of FRES, just as we are examining every aspect of all the major equipment procurement projects in the pipeline, but these are operationally specific acquirements for the armed forces that are necessary to meet the particular circumstances, especially those in Afghanistan. I believe that this equipment will help to save lives and to improve the effectiveness of our operations in Afghanistan. Even in the most challenging of economic times, we are demonstrating that our commitment to equipping our armed forces remains clear and resolute.