Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Argus will be tasked as an aviation support ship for the Royal Marines; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. SainsburyRFA Argus will replace RFA Engadine. Her peacetime role will be as an air training ship. In war, her task would depend on the priorities at the time and she could be used to provide helicopter support in the amphibious group.
Mr. O'NeillTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Argus will enter Royal Navy service; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. SainsburyIt is expected that the ship will leave the shipyard in the new year. Following a period of extensive trials and training, the vessel is scheduled to enter service with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary towards the end of 1988.