§ Dr. Julian LewisTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether the disposal of Type 22 frigates to Romania has been concluded; and if he will make a statement. [152226]
§ Mr. IngramThe Government-to-Government Acquisition Agreement was signed on 19 December 2002, comprising the sale of two regenerated and updated warships (ex-HMS London and ex-HMS Coventry), an initial support package, and a training package for ships' complements. The agreement includes a significant offset programme to be carried out by British Industry, led by the United Kingdom Prime Project Contractor, BAE Systems, over a five-year period.
The regeneration of the ships is proceeding satisfactorily, in accordance with the agreed schedule, and on track to achieve commissioning of the first ship, due in September 2004.
§ Mr. Kevan JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the projected number of orders for naval vessels to be placed over the next 10 years. [153789]
§ Mr. IngramThe Ministry of Defence is already undertaking a large programme of new ship procurement, including orders for six Type 45 destroyers, three Astute Class submarines and four Landing Ships Dock (Auxiliary).
Future plans include the purchase of two new aircraft carriers, further orders of Type 45 destroyers and Astute Class submarines, the Joint Casualty Treatment Ship, and the replacement of existing RFA vessels through the Military Afloat Reach and Sustainability project. The Department is also considering options for leasing new Offshore Patrol Vessels to replace the current Castle Class capability. Tenders are currently being assessed for the Nato Submarine Rescue System, which will enter service in 2006.
Looking further ahead, we expect to replace the capability provided by the Type 22 and 23 Frigates with the Future Surface Combatant. It is too early to say how the capability will be met or when orders will be placed because the project is still at the concept stage.