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Written question asked by James Cartlidge (Conservative) on Monday, 2 December 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 4 December 2024. It was answered by Luke Pollard (Labour) on Friday, 20 December 2024 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.


Puma Helicopters

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what the potential operational implications are of retiring the Puma helicopters early for (a) the RAF, (b) RAF Akrotiri and (c) British Forces Cyprus.

Answer

The Puma aircraft based in the Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs) on the island of Cyprus have historically supported emergency response across the SBAs, as well as providing firefighting, troop movement, training and defence engagement tasks. Defence is exploring options to fulfil some short-term capability gaps, before the H-145 platform enters service from 2026. Defence's Strategic Objectives will continue to be fulfilled.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
17170
Session
2024-26
Related items
Ministry of Defence: Written Questions
Friday, 20 December 2024
Written questions
House of Commons
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Armed forces Decommissioning Cyprus RAF Akrotiri Puma helicopters
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk