HC Deb 05 May 1987 vol 115 cc353-4W
15. Sir John Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the availability of radar equipment for the Tornado.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

A number of Foxhunter radars on order for the Tornado ADV have now been delivered. Although these radars do not fully meet RAF requirements they are contributing to our air defence capability and the first aircraft have now been declared to NATO. We are discussing a programme of improvements with GEC Avionics and, subject to agreement on appropriate contractual conditions, look forward to receiving equipment to the required standard in due course.

32. Mr. Dykes

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what measures are being taken by his Department to bring the Foxhunter radar for the Tornado up to Royal Air Force requirements.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

I refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for South Ribble (Mr. Atkins) on 2 April.

Mr. McNamara

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many RAF Tornado aircraft have crashed to date.

Mr. Freeman

Twelve.

Mr. McNamara

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what information he has as to how many Italian and German Tornado aircraft have crashed to date.

Mr. Freeman

The Royal Air Force maintains close links with the Italian and German Air Forces to exchange information about accidents in order to prevent recurrences elsewhere. However the public release of national aircraft accident statistics is a matter for the respective Governments.