The two Albion-class amphibious assault ships were axed in 2024 as part of cuts initiated by the UK government.

The savings, which Mr Healey blamed on the “dire inheritance” left by the Conservatives, will see assault ships HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark, which have both been flagships, decommissioned.

HMS Albion, meanwhile, will be put into extended readiness for three years, followed by a refit before working up and taking over from Bulwark as the fleet flagship once more in 2016.

the UK's helicopter assault ship." HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark entered service two decades ago. Both are currently held at lower readiness having not been to sea since 2023 and 2017 respectively.

Asked about the claim that the UK would sell the assault ships to Brazil, a Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: "We can confirm we have entered discussions with the Brazilian Navy over the ...