Plans for a successor to the Royal Air Force’s Hawk jet trainer will be detailed in the forthcoming Defence Investment Plan, with ministers declining to confirm whether any replacement would be procured from a British company.
In a written question tabled on 23 February, Conservative MP James Cartlidge asked whether the Government intends to source a Hawk replacement from a UK manufacturer.
Responding for the Ministry of Defence, Minister of State Luke Pollard said: “A plan to replace these aircraft will be detailed in the forthcoming Defence Investment Plan. All elements of this work, including the aircraft replacement, are progressing together. All decisions on future procurements will be made as part of the Defence Investment Plan.”
The answer did not address the nationality of any potential supplier, nor set out a timeline for introduction into service.
In a separate written question, Labour peer Lord Spellar asked what discussions had taken place with unions representing workers in the combat aircraft sector about the future of air platform manufacturing in the UK.
Defence Minister Lord Coaker said the Ministry of Defence is “committed to securing the future of air platform manufacturing in the UK, recognising its importance for skills, economic growth, and national prosperity.” He referenced the Combat Air Strategy and the Global Combat Air Programme as key initiatives underpinning that commitment.
Lord Coaker added: “The MOD engages with unions representing workers in the combat aircraft sector through regular dialogue and consultation. These discussions are part of the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the future of air platform manufacturing in the UK.”
It’s getting to be a Non-News, News site !
Come on Starmer, publish the DIP.
Indeed. Every other article just boils down to the fact that Britain’s defence investment is in a state of paralysis because the government refuses to publish the DIP.
TBH feels more frequent than every other 🤷🏻♂️
WHEN!!!!!!
Soon I would think. The Chancellor will give her Spring statement next week.and the financial position is a bit brighter than expected. That should clear the way for the DIP to be published later in March.
Which Spring, which March ?
DIPends….LOL
😁
It’s a paralysed Govt, a shattering defeat to the Islamist communist alliance and a lame duck PM. The party will oust him and Reeves, the markets know that, and they will replace with a more left wing, high tax for welfare leader so economic decisions will risk market confidence.
What will her spring statement say.? Due to a strong leader we must commit to greater spend and a funded DIP?
Or, there might be Angela in charge after May’s council wipeout , who won’t prioritise defence?
Even if they publish a DIP they can’t promise delivery.
We are now in a race to 2029 with Labour and the Greens promising more socialism..
Govt is “committed to securing the future of air platform manufacturing in the UK“. Glad to hear it. I look forward to the announcement of M346 assembly at Yeovil 😂