Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to (a) upgrade military equipment and (b) increase recruitment.

The Defence Command Paper 21 made several significant announcements around new and upgrading military equipment and we are recapitalising across a range of equipment. Recently announced investments include Jackal 3, Protector Remotely Piloted Air System, Space Control capabilities and Type 31 Frigates. These choices ensure investment in modern warfighting capabilities that will endure and provide relevance well into the next decade.

For the second part of the hon. Member's question, with regards to recruitment, please refer to the answer provided by the right hon. Dr Andrew Murrison on 19 January 2024 to Question 9841.