Written question asked by Lord Campbell of Pittenweem (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 16 October 2018, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 30 October 2018. It was answered by Earl Howe (Conservative) on Tuesday, 30 October 2018 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Boeing P-8: Procurement

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what progress they have made in delivering the maritime patrol aircraft programme.

Answer: Good progress continues to be made on the P-8A Maritime Patrol Aircraft programme with the first RAF aircraft remaining on track for delivery in 2019. In addition, construction work on dedicated infrastructure at RAF Lossiemouth to support those who will operate and maintain the RAF P-8A fleet commenced in April 2018, and is progressing according to the agreed schedule. In April 2018 the first RAF squadron that will operate the P-8A, Number 120 Squadron, was stood up. Personnel have already begun undertaking training courses and, through the Seedcorn initiative, a small number of RAF personnel have maintained the skills required to operate fixed-wing Maritime Patrol Aircraft.

Secondary information