§ Mr. Duncan SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence with what weapons the UK version of the Joint Strike Fighter will be armed; and if he will make a statement. [140015]
§ Dr. Moonie[holding answer 24 November 2000]: The UK is participating in the Concept Demonstration Phase of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) programme which has recently seen the successful first flights of demonstrator aircraft from both competing prime contractors. While JSF remains a strong contender to meet our requirement for a Future Carrier Borne Aircraft, no decision has yet been taken on its procurement. The Government are now considering whether to continue as a full collaborative partner in the next phase of the programme, Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD). The aircraft will allow for the internal and external carriage of a range of air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons, including those meeting UK-specific requirements. Further progress in this area will depend upon our continued participation in the programme.