Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what are the reasons for the early withdrawal from service of the Harpoon anti-ship missile from Royal Navy Type 23 Frigates and Type 45 Destroyers; what alternative is available; and when that alternative will be available.

The Harpoon system currently carried by the Royal Navy will reach its out of service date in 2018.

As part of a process of continuously reviewing the capabilities required to deliver their tasking, the Royal Navy is working alongside other areas of the Ministry of Defence to consider options for a Harpoon replacement.

I am withholding further detail as its disclosure would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of the Armed Forces.