HC Deb 22 January 2004 vol 416 c1393W
Dr. Julian Lewis

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) for what reason the pilots of the two helicopters of 849 Naval Air Squadron which collided on 22 March 2003 had not been issued with night vision goggles; [149876]

(2) what the criteria are for the issuing of night vision goggles to Naval Air Squadron personnel; [149877]

(3) if he will list the equipment available to Naval Air Squadron helicopter pilots, other than night vision goggles, to prevent collision in poor flying conditions at low altitude at night; [149879]

(4) if he will make it his policy that night vision goggles will be issued to helicopter pilots before nighttime missions. [149880]

Mr. Ingram

Night vision goggles (NVG) can be operated only in aircraft that have been specifically modified for this role. Naval helicopters are fitted to allow operation with NVG according to their tactical role in operations. The operational role for the helicopters of 849 Naval Air Squadron involved in Operation TELIC did not require the modifications to the helicopters that are necessary for the provision of NVG.

For RN helicopters, safety is provided by operating procedures such as, air traffic control awareness of hazards through radar detection, communications, lighting and lookout. NVG can, in certain circumstances, enhance these capabilities. But ships operating NVG aircraft need to be compatible. Darkening a ship to allow aircraft NVG operations brings its own safety issues.

Policy for a fleet-wide night vision capability is currently under consideration.

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