VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Air Force: Training

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 17 October 2025UIN 79419

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to page 113 of the Strategic Defence Review 2025, published on 8 July 2025, how arrangements for fast jet training are inadequate.

Answered by Luke Pollard

The Strategic Defence Review 2025 identified inadequacies in fast jet training arrangements, primarily due to the underperformance of the Hawk T2 aircraft, necessitating the initiation of a replacement programme. This issue, combined with the increased demand for fast jet pilot training following the Strategic Defence and Security Review 2015, has placed strain on existing training capacity. During this transitional period, the shortfall has been mitigated through outsourcing agreements with allies and partners, utilising their military fast jet training programmes worldwide.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim