HC Deb 11 May 1966 vol 728 c393
26. Mr. Wall

asked the Minister of Aviation if he will make a statement about the development of British vertical-take-off aircraft.

Mr. Mulley

The Statement on the Defence Estimates confirmed the development of the P1127 V.T.O.L. aircraft for part of the R.A.F. ground attack and Army close support rôle. The development programme is proceeding satisfactorily and initial orders related to production aircraft have been placed.

Mr. Wall

Is it not a fact that the P1127 is subsonic and that because of delays in submitting the order it is now virtually obsolete? Is the Minister aware that our partners in the evaluation squadron, both America and Germany, have several new projects in hand? Are we to be left behind once again?

Mr. Mulley

My experience is to the contrary and that in both Germany and the United States it is realised that this aircraft gives us a very real lead in this field. We have an aircraft that is already flying and on which there has been a lot of experience, and the development aircraft is shortly due to fly. I do not think that in the rôle for which the P1127 is designed supersonic speed is essential. As, however, the hon. Member probably knows, we are undertaking studies to see whether by plenum chamber burning we can increase the thrust of the engine.