A series of ships were laid ashore, the British fleet lost its fighting strength.

The British fleet for the first time in modern history was practically without large battleships capable of combat, writes The Mirror newspaper.

Royal Navy ship HMS Dragon.

According to the article, this “unprecedented situation” is due to lack of funding and frequent breakdowns of the warship fleet. As a result, all six of the UK’s Class 45 destroyers (the first of which entered service in 2003) are currently docked in Portsmouth harbor due to breakdowns or lack of sailors.

In a similar situation, 12 frigates were also idle at Devonport, with only one of the class being serviceable and on standby.

Britain's newest aircraft carrier, the Queen Elizabeth II, has previously been notorious for leaking water after entering service. The second ship of the class is due to be completed in 2020.

Retired British Admiral Alan West believes the country's navy is "on the brink" because it is "too small". "The defence is really falling apart," Mr West said.

He said the government's policy regarding the defense complex was "devastating." Due to lack of financial resources, there was not enough time to train sailors and spare parts for warships.

“We are going to lose the ocean. It is unprecedented,” Mr. West warned.

According to Sputnik