§ Earl Attleeasked Her Majesty's Government:
What gun sight system was fitted to the combat reconnaissance vehicles (tracked) interfered with by protestors at Marchwood military port: and whether it is a classified system; and [HL 1532]
What electronic friend or foe identification system was fitted to the combat reconnaissance vehicles (tracked) interfered with by protestors at Marchwood military port; and whether it is a classified system. [HL 1533]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Defence (Lord Bach)The combat vehicle reconnaissance (tracked) Scimitar interfered with by protestors at Marchwood Military Port is fitted with the enhanced sight periscope infra-red equipment (ESPIRE) gun sighting system, which is not classified. The system was not damaged during the incident.
The combat vehicle reconnaissance (tracked) is not presently fitted with an electronic friend or foe identifications system. We are establishing with allies robust combat ID arrangements and will acquire additional equipment in time for any potential conflict to enable our forces to operate effectively alongside coalition forces.