THE Government ordered a fleet of nine Nimrod MRA4 surveillance aircraft at a cost of £4.1bn.

It was supposed to replace the Nimrod MR2. Although the names are similar, the MRA4 variant was essentially a different aircraft.

Four are finished and are ready to fly. Another three are almost finished. Sadly, all these aircraft are in the process of being dismantled without ever taking to the air. They were cancelled by the Government.

These aircraft are vital to our national security. They protect our sea lanes and underwater submarine movements, hence they are called “the spy in the sky”.

Yes, they are a costly aircraft to operate, but what value do we place on our country’s security?

JM Gowland, Heighington.