To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what versions of the Lynx helicopter are operated in Iraq; what the acquisition cost was of each aircraft; and what the average total operating cost is per hour of the Lynx helicopters deployed in Iraq. (130026)

A number of Lynx Mk 7 aircraft are currently operated in Iraq.

These aircraft were initially procured between 1979 and 1981 and have subsequently been extensively modified and enhanced. The Net Book Value on 12 December 2006 for each of these aircraft was about £4.7 million.

The total operating cost per hour for Lynx Mk 7 is approximately £23,000. This cost includes both fixed and marginal costs incurred in using the aircraft, comprising servicing costs, fuel costs, crew capitation and training costs, support costs and charges for capital and depreciation.

Additional costs are incurred as a result of the operational use and particular climatic conditions experienced in theatre. These costs cover additional wear and tear, additional spares and additional equipment and are paid for by the Conflict Prevention Fund. A total of £11 million has been claimed against the Conflict Prevention Fund in financial year 2006-07 for additional operating and capital costs for Lynx Mk 7s operating in Iraq.