§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what offensive support roles are performed by(a) the Harrier aircraft, (b) the Jaguar aircraft and (c) the Tornado aircraft; and if he will make a statement on each aircraft type's specific contribution to these roles.
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§ Mr. HanleyAll three aircraft are capable of performing the offensive support roles of close air support, battlefield air interdiction and tactical reconnaissance. Offensive Support is the primary role for Harrier and Jaguar, and it is in this role that they are currently assigned to NATO. The Tornado GR1 aircraft is not currently assigned to the offensive support role; it is concerned primarily with long-range interdiction and reconnaissance.