Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 23: To ask the Minister for Defence if the capability of the Air Corps will be augmented over the coming six months through the acquisition of new craft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25950/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The acquisition of new equipment for the Defence Forces, including the Air Corps, continues to be a key focus of mine. In January 2005, two contracts were signed for the provision of new helicopters for the Air Corps at a cost of over €61 million. Four utility helicopters are being acquired from Bell Agusta Aerospace Company at a cost of €48.4 million, inclusive of VAT. The helicopters, two of which will be delivered in 2006 and two in 2007, will be used in support of Defence Force operations. Two light utility helicopters, which are being acquired from Eurocopter SAS at a cost of €12.8 million, inclusive of VAT, are due to be delivered later this year. The first of the two helicopters was accepted by the Department last week, but is being retained in Germany for pilot training purposes. The second of the helicopters is scheduled for acceptance at the end of October. When the helicopters are delivered to Ireland, they will be used to train pilots for their role in support of the Defence Forces. The eight Pilatus PC-9M turbo propeller aircraft delivered last year have replaced seven Marchetti aircraft in the pilot training role. These modern aircraft allow for the continued training of young cadets to the highest standards. A cockpit upgrade is being carried out on the two CASA aircraft at present in the interests of flight safety. A complete radar upgrade is also being considered for both aircraft to increase their operational capability.