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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 4 Nov 2003

Vol. 573 No. 3

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Equipment.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

140 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Defence the costs and expected dates of delivery of the orders placed for 65 new armoured personnel carriers, two new ships, and eight training aircraft for the Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25380/03]

The Defence Forces commenced a programme to acquire Mowag APC-light armoured vehicles in 1999. To date 40 of these vehicles have been received and a further 25 vehicles are scheduled for delivery in 2004. The total cost of the programme is in the region of €84 million.

Two new ships have been delivered for the Naval Service. LE Roisin was commissioned in December 1999 and her sister ship, LE Niamh, was commissioned in September 2001. The total cost of the two ships was €50 million. Both ships have proved to be tremendous assets to the Naval Service in carrying out its various roles.

A contract was signed on 18 January 2003 for the supply of eight turbo propeller training aircraft for the Air Corps. These aircraft will replace the Siai Marchetti aircraft in the pilot training role. The new aircraft type to be supplied is the Pilatus PC-9M, manufactured by Pilatus Aircraft Limited, Stans, Switzerland. The cost of the aircraft is approximately €60 million, inclusive of VAT. Delivery of the aircraft will take place during 2004.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

141 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Defence when it is intended to proceed with the plans to acquire a fleet of light armoured vehicles for the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25254/03]

The Defence Forces commenced a programme to acquire Mowag AP-light armoured vehicles in 1999. To date 40 of these vehicles have been received and a further 25 vehicles are scheduled for delivery in 2004. The total cost of the programme is in the region of €84 million. In addition to this programme, the Defence Forces has a requirement for a smaller light armoured vehicle, designated as a light tactical vehicle which can be used to protect troops engaged in peace support operations in areas where the larger Mowag APC would be inappropriate. For instance, the movement of one to three personnel in high risk confined areas and general surveillance work are among the key roles of the vehicle. Funding for this programme must be considered in the context of the larger APC pro gramme and the changed financial situation and it has been agreed with the military authorities that the programme for the acquisition of the vehicles will not proceed for the present. In the meantime, the Defence Forces will continue to conduct further studies in relation to the type and specification of vehicle required.

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