§ Dr. Julian LewisTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many Fleet Air Arm Sea Harriers are potentially fully operational; and how many Fleet Air Arm Sea Harrier pilots are combat ready. [140126]
§ Mr. SpellarThe requirement for Sea Harrier operational aircraft is 24 aircraft. As of 20 November 2000, all 24 aircraft were available at the required readiness including 14 in front-line squadrons as planned. On the same date, there were 18 combat ready Fleet Air Arm Harrier pilots in front-line squadrons as planned. A further 13 pilots were at planned lower states of readiness.