§ Mr. Robert Atkinsasked the Secretary of State for Defence which air staff target or air staff requirement relates to the procurement of the result of the experimental aircraft programme.
§ Mr. PattieThe experimental aircraft programme is intended to demonstrate a range of advanced technologies applicable to future aircraft and the question of an air staff target does not arise in relation directly to that programme. In parallel, however, talks have been in progress between the staffs of five national air forces, including the RAF, with a view to determining an outline European staff target this month. If such agreement is reached then it will be necessary to issue an air staff target for the Royal Air Force.
§ Mr. Robert Atkinsasked the Secretary of State for Defence which air staff target or air staff requirement is applicable to a replacement fighter aircraft for the Royal Air Force in the mid-1990s.
§ Mr. PattieThere is as yet no formal air staff target or requirement for a replacement fighter for the Royal Air Force. The air staff is discussing its requirements with the air staffs of several European allies in order to determine the possible scope for a common staff target.