Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Combat Air Strategy Update

19 July 2022 · Ministry of Defence

Proposed by Ben Wallace Con Wyre and Preston North

Defence

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • Mr Ben Wallace updates on the progress of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme
  • The minister announces a 250 million contract awarded to BAE Systems for FCAS development
  • International collaboration on FCAS is noted with Italy and Japan

Issue summary

Mr Ben Wallace updates on the progress of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme.

Action requested

The minister provides an update on the ongoing development of FCAS, including a £250 million contract awarded to BAE Systems and international collaboration with Italy and Japan. He also highlights investments in existing fleets like Typhoon and F-35, and emphasizes the importance of industrial capability and levelling up through technological advancements.

Key facts

  • Combat Air Strategy aims to maintain UK's military capability, industrial capacity, and international influence.
  • £2bn will be invested in FCAS out to 2025 as part of a wider £10bn budget over ten years.
  • BAE Systems awarded £250 million contract for Concept and Assessment work under the FCAS Acquisition Programme.
  • A next generation flying demonstrator, capable of supersonic flight, is expected within five years.
  • Typhoon's Radar 2 upgrade will keep it ahead of threats well into the next decade.
  • Over 2,500 personnel are currently employed in the FCAS Enterprise and recruitment is expanding.
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