§ Mr. BrandrethTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what measures he is taking to pursue collaboration on engine technology for future military aircraft.
§ Mr. FreemanMy Department has recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the French Ministry of Defence. This arrangement covers any collaborative aero-engine technology demonstration. Initially, collaboration has been agreed for an advanced small turbine engine, demonstrate technology for future helicopter engines and for an advanced military engine technology programme in support of future combat aircraft engines, and it is hoped that it will eventually include a number of other projects. Through such programmes, we would seek to increase significantly thrust-to-weight ratios while reducing fuel consumption and production, maintenance and life-cycle costs.