§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many British military aircraft, and of what types, took part in the air show at Bratislava airport, Slovakia, on 20 and 21 August; what were the aims of British participation in the event; and what was the total cost of this participation.
§ Mr. SoamesThe following RAF aircraft were present at the airshow in question:
- 9 Hawks (Red Arrows)
- 2 Hawks
- 4 Tornado GR1
- 2 Harrier
- 1 Chinook
- 1 Hercules
Displays were flown by the Red Arrows and two of the Tornado GR1s. The other aircraft were on static display. All extra costs for accommodation, food and fuel were met by the organisers of the airshow.
Attendance at this airshow was part of my Department's wider policy of enhancing military relations with countries of central and eastern Europe.