Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what comparative assessment he has made of the capabilities of the (a) enhanced Leonardo M-346 T Block 20 trainer and F-model light combat aircraft, (b) the Hawk T2 and (c) other commercially available options.

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. There are several market options available that may be considered.