§ Mr. MansTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for the armed forces future operational information systems; and if he will make a statement. [21664]
§ Mr. ArbuthnotAccurate and timely information is crucial to the success of the armed forces in a wide range of operations, from humanitarian aid missions to major conflict. The BOWMAN combat radio system will874W provide a significant increase in the capability of all three services to exchange operational information. The airborne stand-off radar system—ASTOR—will provide a substantial enhancement of capability by supplying commanders with near real-time surveillance information.
Competitive contracts for project definition of BOWMAN were placed in 1993 with two consortia, Crossbow, led by ITT UK Ltd., and Yeoman, led by Siemens Plessey Systems and Racal. PD work is now largely complete and equipment is being tested in field trials, which are due to end in April 1997. Following an evaluation of BOWMAN procurement options, we have decided to issue a request for proposals for initial production and support to Archer, a joint venture company which is being formed by the leaders of Crossbow and Yeoman. This approach will enable us to procure a highly capable system combining the most cost-effective elements of the Crossbow and Yeoman solutions. It will also offer the most timely way of meeting the BOWMAN requirement. Subject to receipt of an acceptable tender from the company and agreement of suitable contractual conditions, we would aim to let a contract by 1999, in order to meet the in-service date of 2002. It is expected that the contract will be worth in excess of £1 billion.
ASTOR will use highly capable new radar systems installed on fixed wing aircraft to provide both a wide area of coverage and a high degree of resolution. Following successful completion in August last year of a competitive project definition phase, proposals were received from consortia led by Lockheed Martin and Raytheon E-Systems, and including UK sub-contractors. Following a thorough assessment of these proposals and a detailed analysis of a number of other options, we have decided to invite the two consortia to submit best and final offers for the full development, production and in-service support of ASTOR. We aim to place a contract with the winning consortium in 1998. It is estimated that the contract will be worth in the region of £750 million.
ASTOR and BOWMAN will provide key enhancements to the capability of our armed forces and will provide UK industry with valuable, high technology work.