HL Deb 14 November 1989 vol 512 cc1305-6WA
Lord Ironside

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether in view of the recent technical advances in Soviet weapons performance there has been any change in the operational requirements for the main battle tank to replace the Chieftain, and if so whether they are still satisfied that the Challenger 2 can meet them.

The Earl of Arran

Advances in Soviet weapons performance are kept under review and acted upon where necessary: this is reflected in the current operational requirement for Chieftain replacement.