Seacat Missile

HC Deb 04 March 1960 vol 618 cc176-7W

Captain Kerby

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty whether the Seacat missile is to undergo trials in H.M. Destroyer "Decoy" this summer.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

We plan to start trials at sea of the Seacat missile later this year, but I cannot state certainly the ship that will be used.

Captain Kerby

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty if H.M. cruisers "Lion", "Tiger" and "Blake" are included among the ships to be fitted with the Seacat anti-aircraft missile, in view of the obsolescence of all types of anti-aircraft guns, including the 3-inch guns with which these ships are armed.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

No. The 3-inch gun is a modern weapon that will provide effective anti-aircraft defence for many years to come. Seacat is being developed to succeed the lighter 40 mm. Bofors gun.