§ Mr. ColvinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to place contracts for new auxiliary oil tankers; when the ships are intended to enter service; what 99W specification is planned in terms of speed and endurance; how many helicopters will be carried; whether the ships will carry dry stores or weaponry; what order of cost is envisaged; what consideration was given to the use of the private finance initiative; and if he will make a statement. [23582]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotAn invitation to tender was issued on 2 February 1996 for up to two auxiliary oilers for order around the turn of the year. The first vessel is expected to enter service in early 2001. The specification will meet the latest environmental safety standards and provide a capability for replenishment of warships with fuel and a limited range of solid stores while under way and the operation of a single Merlin-sized helicopter. A speed in excess of 18 kts is required and the ship will possess a limited self-defence capability to allow it to operate with front-line naval forces in peace and war; it will also be able to receive the Phalanx close-in weapons system. The private finance initiative was judged to be inappropriate for the operational role envisaged for these ships. Costs cannot be provided as they are commercial-in-confidence at this stage in the competition.