CONFIDENTIAI.
2ND DRAFT
ROYAL AIR FORCE AIRCRAFT AND EQUIPMENT
29. Major aircraft and equipment changes during 1975-76 are as
follows:
a. Jaguars
The
Deliveries to the Royal Air Force are continuing.
Operational Conversion Unit at RAF Lossiemouth will reach
full strength by the end of the year, by which time nearly
all the two-seater T Mark 2 trainers ordered will have been
delivered. The first two offensive support squadrons of
Jaguar GR Mark is have already formed in Strike Command, and
the first three strike/attack squadrons in RAF Germany
will be built up during the year and will replace the
present squadrons of Phantom FGR2s.
b.
Phantom FGR2's
The Phantom FGR2's are being replaced in the strike/
attack, offensive support, and reconnaissance roles by
Jaguars. These Phantoms are being transferred to the air
defence role and will largely replace the existing Lightning
force. The Strike Command Phantom air defence force is
likely to be complete by the end of the year.
C.
Buccaneers
An additional Buccaneer squadron has begun to form in
Strike Command.
Aircraft deliveries will be completed by
the end of the year.
d. Nimrods
A programme to refit Nimrods with new and improved
radio and telecommunications equipment will begin.
- 36
CONFIDENTIAL