Anti-tank Missiles

HC Deb 28 January 2002 vol 379 cc22-3W

Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence when the MOD's balance of investment of anti tank missiles study will be completed; and if he will make a statement. [30290]

Mr. Ingram

The most recent studies of anti-tank guided weapons were concluded in summer 2001. These studies considered the procurement of such weapon systems for mechanised infantry and armoured infantry. The conclusions reached in these studies will be used to inform any future procurement options.

Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the existing Milan system for medium range anti-tank missiles; and if he will make a statement. [30286]

Mr. Ingram

The MILAN system meets the requirements for which it was designed, and is successfully deployed in over 40 countries. The system has been in service since 1977, and replacements are developed in line with technological advances and changing capability requirements. MILAN, which is due to be phased out of service between 2005 and 2008, is to be replaced by the Light Forces' Anti-Tank Guided Weapon (LF ATGW) system.