Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they anticipate that the conversion of a Boeing 737NG aircraft to the E-7 configuration can be accomplished in two years; and what steps they are taking to ensure that timetable can be met.

The schedule for delivery of our aircraft was a key part of our contractual negotiations with Boeing and, as part of the due diligence process, it was subjected to scrutiny and a thorough risk assessment. Consequently, we are confident that the agreed average 24-month modification schedule accurately reflects the expected duration for a project of this nature and scope. Boeing has identified an experienced team to manage the modification programme to ensure it is successful. For this project, Boeing has recruited individuals with a wealth of experience from previous E-7 modification programmes from the US and Australia, who have been involved in all the previous customer programmes. Throughout the project there will, of course, be regular reviews to monitor progress and ensure that it remains on track.