THE number of Type-26 frigates to be built on the Clyde could be reduced further due to ballooning costs, it has been claimed.

With the number already cut from 13 to eight, the UK Government’s nuclear “obsession” could result in a further drop along with other huge gaps in the UK’s defence forces, according to the SNP.

The SNP's claim that the spending earmarked for Trident could hit the frigates is based on a report that shows conventional defences are being stretched while the UK Government is planning to spend in excess of £200 billion on new nuclear submarines. The spending is earmarked despite recent revelations about malfunctioning missile systems.

The vast expense of Trident is taking vital funds away from the UK’s conventional defence forces that should be providing them with the support and kit they need, according to the SNP.

The allegation comes after a national newspaper reported that the UK’s conventional defence is being left with gaping holes. These include £1bn Type-46 destroyers that can be detected by submarines up to 100 miles away, armoured vehicles that are too big to fit in the RAF’s main transport aircraft, and fresh concerns that the number of Type-26 frigates to be built on the Clyde could be reduced further, having already fallen from 13 to eight due to ballooning costs.

“It is time for the UK Government to get over its obsession with nuclear weapons and Trident and to offer the correct support to our conventional forces by giving them the kit and equipment they need to effectively do their jobs,” said SNP Defence spokesperson Brendan O’Hara.

“Some of the reports in the Sunday Times are absolutely farcical, with Type-45 destroyers being described as ‘noisy as hell’ and detectable at a range of 100 miles, and drones that cost £1.2 billion a piece still being unable to enter full service due to technical glitches 12 years after being commissioned.

“And the ongoing concerns about the future of the Type-26 project, being built at shipyards on the Clyde, are very disturbing, having already had the original number cut from 13 to eight, with the Sunday Times warning this could fall further. The Tories need to get their act together to make sure they don’t betray the shipyard workers yet again.

He added: “It is clear that the Tories would rather waste billions and billions on renewing the malfunctioning obscenity that is Trident, rather than ensuring our conventional forces are properly equipped. They must wake up to the reality that their obsession with morally obscene nuclear weapons is costing our defences dearly.”