RAF E-7 Wedgetail Programme

Recognised that the gap in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability is particularly acute and important for NATO's operations. He draws parallels between the reduction in Wedgetail numbers and the coalition Government’s cutting of the Nimrod programme, expressing concern about gaps in ISR capabilities.

Mr Roome welcomed Air Marshal Harv Smyth to his new appointment as Chief of the Air Staff, congratulating him on his leadership role. The Member agrees with his hon. Friend and raises concerns about the current situation, urging the government to work closely with allies and co-ordinate allied air forces in Europe for better defence. Will the Minister also join the Worshipful Company of Engineers in congratulating Sir Rich Knighton on becoming the first engineer to become the chief of the Royal Air Force.

The hon. Gentleman thanks his near-neighbour for friendship and support over the years.

He welcomes Mr Francois's point, clarifies that the decision to reduce the order came after Mr Francois’s time as a Minister. He criticises the irrational decision made by Ben Wallace in 2021 to cut the order from five aircraft to three and highlights the impact on capability and cost. Asked if upgrading the fleet of E-7 Wedgetail aircraft would be easier with five airframes, allowing one to be out of service for upgrades.

Mr Luke Pollard responded to concerns raised about the reduction in E-7 Wedgetail aircraft. He noted that while there is a concern about reducing capabilities, the MOD will continue with procurement decisions based on national and NATO requirements. Supported the strategic defence review's wording and highlighted increased defence spending up to 3.5% of GDP by 2035, benefiting British companies. Acknowledges the importance of the programme for national security and commits to ensuring accurate answers are provided through correspondence.

My right hon. Friend congratulates Air Marshal Harv Smyth on his appointment as the new Chief of the Air Staff designate, welcoming the appointments alongside the new Chief of the Defence Staff.

Asked if there is a bit of a fightback coming due to the deletion of the Wedgetail programme for the United States air force in their appropriations Bill. He declares an interest as a former member of the Defence Committee and acknowledges his contribution to the report that criticised the decision to cut the number from five to three aircraft. Raises concerns about delays and calls on the Minister to answer direct questions about the programme's status without deferring to a letter.

The Member congratulates his hon. Friend on introducing the debate and raises serious concerns about the status of the Wedgetail programme, highlighting the need for a modern airborne early warning control aircraft in operational service.

Mr Bhatti expressed pride in the programme being built in his constituency and highlighted the strategic importance of the E-7 Wedgetail, stressing its role in maintaining air superiority and providing advanced data. He also questioned the Minister about export capability and faster delivery.

The hon. Member raises concerns about procurement issues and a capability gap in airborne early warning coverage. He calls for someone to get a grip on the programme and deliver the necessary capabilities.

The hon. Gentleman recognises the economic benefits of the E-7 programme for constituencies such as his own, where Thales is developing a threat warning system. He highlights Scottish firms' contributions to defence and criticizes the SNP Government's stance on 'munitions'.