To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the time scale is for the programme to fit explosion suppressant foam to Hercules aircraft; how many aircraft will be fitted with the foam; and if he will make a statement. (103107)

The majority of the RAF’s C-130 Hercules fleet will be fitted with explosion suppressant foam (ESF). On current plans the programme will be completed by the end of next year.

I am withholding the precise number of C-130 Hercules aircraft that will be fitted with ESF as disclosure would, or would be likely to, prejudice the security of the UK’s armed forces.