Armed Forces Capability 2020-03-16
2020-03-16
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The Ministry of Defence has rigorous processes to assure, test, and develop its capabilities.
What steps is the Department taking to ensure that the armed forces' capabilities are adequate for future threats? My constituency in Cornwall is excited about launching satellites from Spaceport Cornwall; will space be fully part of the integrated review?
We have established a space directorate tasked with advancing opportunities for the UK commercial space sector. I assure my hon. Friend that space and its potential will indeed be part of the integrated review.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Over £430 million has been spent on the Army's Warrior programme upgrade, but it is still at the demonstration phase after nine years.
Despite £430 million being spent, the Warrior programme remains in the demonstration phase. Can you indicate when a contract will be let? Will that happen only after the battlefield assessment phase is complete?
We are at the demonstration phase for the Warrior programme. Any future steps will be taken at the conclusion of that phase to ensure we have the right kit for the Army through 2040 and potentially beyond.
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Assessment & feedback
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Q3
Partial Answer
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The Minister did not comment on CASD in this place.
What steps will be taken to ensure that the continuous at-sea deterrent continues to function during the current pandemic?
We do not comment on CASD in this place. However, I thank my hon. Friend for his interest and assure him that we are taking appropriate measures to ensure its continuity.
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Assessment & feedback
Details of how the continuous at-sea deterrent is affected by the outbreak were not provided due to policy reasons.
We Do Not Comment On Casd In This Place.
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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The UK will not be able to replicate many of the security benefits of EU membership, according to the Royal United Services Institute.
Russian hackers have attacked British companies. What is the capacity we are losing by leaving the EU? Can you outline costed proposals for unilateral development of that capacity?
We have world-leading capabilities in cyber. The integrated review will put in place strong plans to further strengthen our work. Our EU defence counterparts are keen to continue working closely with the UK as sovereign equals.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific costed proposals for developing capacity were not provided, and instead assurance was given based on existing capabilities and future review outcomes.
Response accuracy