HC Deb 02 June 1992 vol 208 cc534-5W
Mr. Vaz

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether the Warrior vehicles hit by friendly fire from two American A-10 jets were fitted with IFF—identification friend-or-foe technology; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Archie Hamilton

No. During the Gulf conflict, a secure and effective electronic identification system did not exist. The board of inquiry into this tragic incident recommended that a study be initiated to identify a suitable air recognition system for future use. In pursuit of that recommendation, the Defence Research Agency is undertaking a research programme aimed at assessing short-term solutions as well as options for the longer term.

Mr. Vaz

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has for updating and improving current IFF—identification friend-or-foe technology.

Mr. Aitken

The Government remain concerned about the inadequacies of existing IFF systems. We are currently engaged, in co-operation with France and Germany, in a programme of studies into the required characteristics of a next generation IFF system for aircraft. Close consultation is being maintained with Italy and with the United States Government, who have been reviewing their own future requirements following the cancellation of its IFF Mk XV programme in 1991. Firm decisions on the way ahead are not expected before 1993.

Separately, the Government are carrying out studies into possible methods of improving the identification of ground forces (battlefield IFF).