HC Deb 25 May 1999 vol 332 cc106-7W
Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to make a decision about the Sonar 2193 programme; and what plans he has for its role in Royal Naval service. [84518]

Mr. Spellar

On current plans, we expect to place a contract for the Sonar 2193 upgrade programme by mid-2001. The sonar upgrade will be introduced into service in 2003, and will improve the minehunting performance of the HUNT Class mine countermeasures vessels. In particular it will enhance their effectiveness against modern, stealthy mines.