§ Mr. KeetchTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether the Government intend to buy Predator; and if he will make a statement. [70669]
§ Dr. MoonieUnder the Watchkeeper programme we are considering how tactical unmanned aerial vehicles can enhance our reconnaissance and imagery intelligence capabilities. Four industry consortia have proposed a range of system solutions (both air vehicles and ground segment elements). The Predator air vehicle is a part of one of these solutions.
We intend later this year to select two potential solutions for more detailed assessment. Our aim is to select a single preferred solution by the end of 2003.