Ministers deny plans to scale back warship fleet

Devonport Naval Base, the base for seven Type 23 frigates, is also home to an amphibious fleet of three warships.
Ministers have scotched rumours of the break-up of 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines and further cutbacks to warships after being challenged at Westminster.

It follows claims by a well-respected military journal as the Ministry of Defence consider more cuts during a three-month review of spending.

Reports in Jane's Defence Weekly, which would have major implications for the city, said the Royal Navy's surface fleet could be scaled back to just 12 frigates and destroyers from a 19-strong flotilla at present.

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