HC Deb 08 February 1996 vol 271 cc357-8W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) what estimate he has made of the cost of leasing American F16 aircraft; and if he will make a statement; [14147]

(2) what estimate he has made of the cost of upgrading Tornado F3s; and if he will make a statement; [14146]

(3) what assessment has he made of the interoperability of American F16 aircraft within the Royal Air Force; [14148]

(4) what is the cost per flying hour of (a) a Tornado F3 and (b) an American F16 aircraft. [14150]

Mr. Arbuthnot

As I told the hon. Member in response to his question of 15 January 1996,Official Report, column 430, we are evaluating a proposal to upgrade the Tornado F3's weapons systems, and as a routine part of

Mr. Arbuthnot

I will write to the hon. and learned Member and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Library of the House.