HC Deb 18 April 2002 vol 383 c1078W
Mr. Martyn Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on progress on the Army's Future Rapid Effects System project. [50004]

Dr. Moonie

[holding answer 17 April 2002]: The Army's Future Rapid Effect System (FRES) is in the concept phase. The operational requirement that FRES is expected to meet is close to being finalised. Initial Gate for the programme is planned for the end of 2002. We continue to review our existing armoured fighting vehicle programmes to ensure that they are coherent with the requirement for 'rapid effect'.