VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Guided Weapons

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 8 September 2026UIN 23271

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority Major Projects Annual Report 2025 to 2026, Tables, Ground Based Air Defence, what steps is he taking to mitigate the unaffordable cost estimates for BC 2 SHORAD capability.

Answered by Ministry of Defence

The Ministry of Defence continues to assess options to deliver the required Ground Based Air Defence capability in an affordable manner.

The programme is pursuing a more incremental and adaptable approach, prioritising lower-cost and faster-to-field capabilities, including interceptor uncrewed aircraft systems, jammers, command and control systems and sensors, while continuing to assess options for the progressive introduction of additional layered air defence capabilities as resources permit.

The programme is also seeking to maximise lessons and opportunities arising from operational capability acquisitions and international collaboration.

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