Written Answers. - Defence Forces Equipment.
Ivor Callely
Question:
85
Mr. Callely
asked the
Minister for Defence
the number of helicopters available to the Air Corps; the total number of aircraft available; the number of aircraft required to meet the needs of the Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[30252/01]
Ivor Callely
Question:
147
Mr. Callely
asked the
Minister for Defence
the progress regarding equipment modernisation requirements in the Air Corps; the training available to the personnel involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[30404/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 147 together.
The current Air Corps fleet consists of 32 aircraft, 18 fixed wing aircraft and 14 helicopters.
The Government recognises that there are urgent equipment modernisation requirements in the Air Corps. In recognition of these requirements, I announced on 1 March of last year, the allocation of a total of up to £55 million over the next three years for this purpose. These funds will initiate vital investment in new aircraft for the Air Corps.
The first indicator of this investment is the current project for the acquisition of medium lift helicopters for the Air Corps. This major investment programme involves the acquisition of two medium lift helicopters, with an option of a third, for search and rescue purposes as well as an option for two medium lift helicopters for general purpose military transport. I expect to make an announcement on this matter shortly. In addition, tender documentation recently issued for the lease of a replacement aircraft for the Beechcraft and responses are due in early January 2002.
There are, of course, other equipment requirements in the Air Corps. In this regard, I am still awaiting the submission of a strategic plan for the organisation which is to be presented by the military authorities. This plan is to include recommendations on a complete fleet replacement programme in order of priority. In this regard, the issue of air defence is being examined by the military authorities in light of the terrible events of September 11. The possible acquisition of aircraft to fulfil an air defence role is also a consideration.
A priority for the Air Corps is the requirement to acquire fixed wing training aircraft for Air Corps cadets and officers. When proposals for fixed wing training aircraft are received in tandem with the strategic plan I will arrange for my Department to progress the matter as one of urgency.
This will address the issue of the lack of suitable aircraft for the training of cadets and will permit the effective and efficient training of Air Corps flying officers. There are other methods of training pilots in place at present to deal with any perceived lack of flying hours on aircraft. Simulators are used in addition to the provision of training courses abroad as required.
