Polaris Submarines (Missile Tests)

HC Deb 25 March 1964 vol 692 cc435-6

5. Mr. W. Hamilton

asked the Minister of Aviation when the testing of missiles to be placed in the British Polaris submarines will commence.

Mr. Amery

The A3 missile, with which our Polaris submarines will be fitted, has been under test by the United States Navy for some time. Development is at an advanced stage and the missile is planned to enter service with the U.S. Navy later this year.

Mr. Hamilton

Can the Minister say whether the warheads and the firing mechanisms have been tested as well, because clearly the one goes with the other? If not, when does he anticipate testing them, in view of the test ban treaty?

Mr. Amery

The firing mechanisms have been tested repeatedly. I understand that the warheads, on the American side, were tested underground long ago. Our warheads are under development. There is no need for a positive test of the nuclear material to ensure that the system itself works. The detonation is quite distinct from the nuclear.