§ Captain Kerbyasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he is aware that the Indian Government intend purchasing Sea King helicopters; and whether he proposes to approve the sale of these helicopters with flight control and 428W anti-submarine equipment identical to that fitted in the Royal Navy version.
§ Dr. David OwenIt is not the practice to disclose details of negotiations about sales of defence equipment which are confidenial.
§ Captain Kerbyasked the Secretary of State for Defence what advantages are possessed by the Sea King helicopter, as delivered to the Royal Navy, in the field of anti-submarine warfare, compared to known anti-submarine systems in service elsewhere.
§ Dr. David OwenSpeed, range and great flexibility of operation are characteristics, which, together with its weapons system, enable the large helicopter to make a most important contribution in the field of anti-submarine warfare. The Sea King helicopter, as delivered to the Royal Navy, will be among the most advanced anti-submarine helicopters in operational service.