§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the expected service life is of the Lynx Mark 8. [66033]
§ Mr. IngramThe Maritime Lynx Helicopter Force based at RNAS Yeovilton operates both the Mk 3 and Mk 8 Lynx aircraft. Both variants are managed as one fleet. The Maritime Lynx was introduced into service in the mid-1970s. At current flying rates, the hulk of the fleet will reach its specified airframe fatigue life limits in 2008, however, the first airframe will be withdrawn for disposal in 2004. The intention is to replace both the Mk 8 and Mk 3 aircraft with the Surface Combatant Maritime Rotorcraft.