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Written question asked by Lord West of Spithead (Labour) on Wednesday, 19 April 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 4 May 2023. It was answered by Baroness Goldie (Conservative) on Thursday, 4 May 2023 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Future Combat Air System

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government whether the Tempest supersonic stealth fighter is a replacement for the F35 as well as for the Typhoon.

Answer

The UK capability to deliver 'Control of the Air' beyond Typhoon out of service date has been described in the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) Concept of Employment and supporting documents. This requirement describes an integrated system of systems, in which the core platform is currently referred to as Tempest. Analysis is ongoing to determine specific quantities of platforms needed to satisfy the UK defence needs. This includes crewed and uncrewed collaborative platforms.

In line with the Integrated Review, we are continuing to develop Future Combat Air System (FCAS) as a replacement for the capabilities provided by our Typhoon aircraft. Advances in technology mean it is being designed to deliver an even larger range and depth of capabilities than current platforms to address emerging threats, including greater networked interoperability with uncrewed aircraft and F-35. FCAS will therefore replace the UK Typhoon roles and will complement the F35 fleet but not replace it.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL7313
Session
2022-23
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Typhoon aircraft F-35 aircraft Future combat air system
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk