Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what discussions he has had with the Royal Air Force on the procurement of the Aermacchi M-346 fast jet trainer.

The Royal Air Force continuously researches and assesses options for the sustainment, enhancement and development of hardware and systems to maintain competitive advantage within the flying training system. The Aermacchi M-346 fast jet trainer is one of several market options available and no formal market engagement has been conducted.