Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what the remaining (a) establishment and (b) structure of the Fleet Air Arm is in terms of (i) manpower and (ii) aircraft. [38839]

Nick Harvey MP; Minister of State for the Armed Forces: After implementing the decisions taken in the strategic defence and security review, the Fleet Air Arm will operate the following helicopters:

30 anti-submarine Warfare Merlins;

28 Maritime Wildcats;

25 Commando Merlins; and

six Battlefield Wildcats.

In addition, some second line aircraft will be used for training purposes. It will employ 1,179 officers and 3,186 ratings.

The Fleet Air Arm remains the Ministry of Defence's Maritime Aircraft Operating Authority and is a joint partner in the Joint Combat Aircraft programme.