HC Deb 14 December 1976 vol 922 cc653-4W
16. Sir J. Langford-Holt

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what aircraft under his control are available for the transporting of infantry battalions for emergency service overseas; whether helicopters and armour can still be so transported, and in what numbers; and, if no longer possible, when this ended.

Mr. Wellbeloved

Infantry battalions can be moved by the 11 VC1O and 45 Hercules aircraft of the RAF front line Transport Force. The Hercules can also, to the extent necessary, carry helicopters and armoured vehicles, with the exception of main battle tanks for which there is no military airlift requirement.