To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the estimated hourly flying time cost is of (a) the Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft and (b) each air-to-air service provider. (280061)

After full system delivery of the Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft the average hourly flying time cost for military usage is estimated to be £20,000. This rate includes all costs associated with provision of military capability (including Defensive Aids Suite), aircraft support, training and associated infrastructure. No equivalent cost is currently available from a commercial air-to-air service provider.

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence on what date he expects the Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft to enter service. (280063)

The Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA) introduction to service is planned to begin in 2011, with the full service being available by 2016.