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The Royal Navy's operational capacity has declined to a historic low, with only three of six Type 45 destroyers and six of eight Type 23 frigates currently available, as reported by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Out of 63 total ships, approximately 50% are operational.

Lord West, a former head of the Navy, criticized this situation in a recent parliamentary question, calling the number of operational ships 'a disgrace' and stating that the Navy's current state undermines national security. He expressed concern over insufficient vessels to secure Britain's economic waters. In response, the MoD highlighted an increase in defense spending, with an additional £5 billion allocated this financial year, and announced plans for 13 modern warships as part of the Atlantic Bastion programme, aimed at transforming the Navy.