Today’s defence related news includes speculation around RAF spy aircraft.
Speculation on spy aircraft
Daily Telegraph reports that MPs are demanding a competition to replace the RAF’s Boeing built spy planes rather than “buying off the shelf” from the US company. Members of the defence select committee are quoted as saying an “open competition” must be held on any dead for new AWACS jets for Britain.
An MOD spokesperson said:
Any decision on the way forward for the Sentry capability will be taken in the best interests of national security in the face of intensifying threats, and only after full consideration. We tender contracts competitively wherever appropriate. With no decisions finalised, it is too early to comment further at this time.
Death of a soldier in Estonia
Most outlets including, The Daily Express, Daily Star, Sky, ITV News, The Telegraph, Mirror and The Sun report that British Soldier Pte Reece Miller of the 1st battalion the Yorkshire Regiment has died while serving in Estonia, as a result of a non-battle injury.
An Army spokesperson said:
It is with great sadness that the British Army must confirm the death of Private Reece Miller from 1st battalion, the Yorkshire Regiment (1YORKS) as a result of a non-battle injury while serving in Estonia. The incident is currently under investigation. Our thoughts remain with his family and friends at this difficult time.
RAF 100
The Times carries a picture story of RAF aircraft rehearsing in formation, ahead of next week’s RAF 100 celebrations.
Nuclear tests
The Daily Mirror runs a short story this morning on former Royal Engineer Raymond Webber, 81, who drove a truck through the fallout of a nuclear test site.
An MOD Spokesperson said:
We are grateful to all those who participated in the British nuclear testing programme and we carefully consider every request to recognise their extraordinary accomplishments. Any veteran who believes they have suffered ill health due to service has the right to apply for compensation.
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