§ Mr. Sheermanasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he is now able to make a statement on the maintenance, modification and updating of the Nimrod fleet.
§ Mr. LeeThe maintenance of Nimrod aircraft, including minor modifications, is normally carried out by the Royal Air Force, but major modifications are carried out by industry. We are, however, examining the scope for putting Nimrod major servicing out to competitive tender. Modifications and equipment updates will continue throughout the service life of all marks of Nimrod aircraft in order to maintain their capability and to meet changes in the threat.
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he has any plans for upgrading the Nimrod aircraft or finding an alternative aircraft; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PattieA major programme to update the capability of Nimrods employed in the maritime reconnaissance role is nearing completion, and further enhancements are being considered. We are also studying options in the longer term for supplementing the aircraft in this role, but there are at present no plans to replace Nimrods with other aircraft. The maritime reconnaissance version should have another 20 years' life and the airborne early warning version has not yet entered service.