Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to increase the number of full crews available to operate P-8 Poseidon aircraft when they are introduced.

There are several measures in place to increase the number of crews for the P-8A Poseidon which include:

As part of the Poseidon programme RAF personnel are undertaking training in the USA with the US Navy. Initial Poseidon training will transfer to RAF Lossiemouth and be instructed by RAF personnel in mid 2021.

A programme of recruiting and training across all RAF flying specialisations is already underway; in addition, ex-RAF aircrew with suitable experience and qualifications are being encouraged to re-join the Service.

A small number of specialists from the Royal Navy will undergo P-8A training and serve on exchange to bolster the RAF's maritime experience.

The RAF is expanding its Exchange Officer Programme, to include reciprocal agreements with a number of allied nations for personnel to be placed in flying posts associated with the P-8A.