§ 35. Mr. Goldingasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he is satisfied with the capability of the Royal Air Force to deal with a major armoured assault in Western Europe.
§ Mr. JohnThe Royal Air Force would not of course have to deal alone with a major armoured assault in Western 127W Europe, but as part of the combined strength of NATO. I am satisfied that the Royal Air Force is able to play a full part in meeting such a threat, and we are constantly seeking ways of improving its capability. One significant improvement has been made in our tactical air force in Germany, where by mid-1977 we shall have introduced five Jaguar squadrons to boost the capability of our Buccaneer and Harrier squadrons.