§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the cost of purchasing from the United States additional Sidewinder missiles for Harriers, and of converting RAF Harrier GR3 aircraft to carry them.
§ Mr. PattieFor reasons of commercial confidentiality it would be inappropriate to disclose the purchase costs. Specific costs of modifying Harrier GR3 aircraft to carry Sidewinder missiles cannot be made available without disproportionate staff effort.
§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the cost of introducing laser-guided bombs for RAF Harrier aircraft.
§ Mr. PattieThe fitting of laser-guided bombs to Harrier GR3 aircraft has been studied over a number of years and trials are continuing. The final cost of the studies, trials and modifications is not yet known.