HC Deb 06 March 1987 vol 111 cc731-2W
Mr. Chris Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) on what date RAF Molesworth will achieve initial operational capability;

(2) on what date the 303rd Tactical Missile Wing is due to be activated; on what date it will achieve initial operational capability; how many personnel of the 303rd Tactical Missile Wing are currently in the United Kingdom; how many personnel of the wing will be in the United Kingdom when it achieves fully operational capability; and whether he has any plans for the use of Alconbury for the 303rd Tactical Missile Wing.

Mr. Stanley

The 303rd Tactical Missile Wing was activated for administrative purposes on 12 December 1986. At present there are some 250 USAF personnel of the 303rd Tactical Missile Wing at RAF Molesworth. This will increase to some 750 USAF personnel by the time the wing becomes fully operational during 1988. RAF Alconbury provides administrative support for RAF Molesworth. As far as initial operation capability is concerned, I have nothing to add to the reply that I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Derbyshire, South (Mrs. Currie) on 15 April 1986 at column375.