HC Deb 27 July 1999 vol 336 c197W
Mr. Cohen

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many Apache helicopters his Department is planning to acquire; at what cost; what reassessment has been made of their strategic role following the Kosovo conflict; and if he will make a statement. [91874]

Mr. George Robertson

We are acquiring 67 WAH-64 Apache attack helicopters at an estimated cost of some £3.1bn, including munitions and a 30-year training contract. We are currently studying the US Army's report into the deployment of Apache to the Balkans. It is too early to draw any firm conclusions, but we will take full account of any lessons for the aircraft's role.

Mr. Alan Williams

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what analysis has been undertaken of the effectiveness of the Apache helicopter since the Kosovo campaign. [92477]

Mr. George Robertson

We are currently studying the US Army's report into the deployment of US Army Apaches to the Balkans. It is too early to draw any firm conclusions, but we will take a full account of any lessons for the aircraft's role with the British Army.

Mr. Alan Williams

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many Apache helicopters are(a) in service and (b) on order for the RAF. [92494]

Mr. Spellar

There are currently no Apache helicopters in service with the British Army. Sixty-seven WAH-64 Apache attack helicopters are on order. They will be operated by the Army.