Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, how the mandatory requirement, based on industrial standards and internationally agreed definitions, for the F35 Lightening aircraft to be compliant with Part 13 sub paragraph 1.1.9.1 of MAA/Def Stan 00-970 (Aircraft Collision Avoidance System) is satisfied.

The safety of the F-35 air system is a primary requirement for the UK programme. At the time the F-35 undertook initial certification with the Military Aviation Authority, Def Stan 00-970 Part 13, sub-para 1.1.9.1 was not applicable. The UK is, however, working with the US to develop an automated Air Collision Avoidance System for the F-35. Prior to this integration, we remain fully confident that the F-35's advanced situational awareness enables it to operate safely.