HMS Defenceless: Two destroyers sail minus missiles to save cash

The Sea Dart missiles, which have a range of 40 miles, used to protect HMS Exeter and HMS Southampton against enemy planes and missiles.

Now 4.5inch guns give them their main protection. At least half a dozen sailors - who operated the surface-to-air missiles - have been transferred to other ships because their roles became defunct.

At risk: HMS Southampton has had its guided missiles removed to save money

Last night, the decision to deny the Type 42 destroyers the missiles was criticised by defence experts.

Both Portsmouth-based vessels have been operating without the missile system since last year, and since then Exeter has twice sailed to the Mediterranean and joined a Nato-led operation.

The Sea Dart - which has been in use since 1977 and was first successfully deployed in the Falklands War in 1982 - is due to be phased out as the new Type 45 Daring class destroyers come into service.

However, both Exeter and Southampton are likely to be fully operational until next year.

The cost-cutting decision emerged a few days after it was reported that some troops fighting for their country in Afghanistan are earning less than traffic wardens.

Rear Admiral David Bawtree, the former commander of Portsmouth Naval Base, said: 'It is surprising that the destroyers are sailing without their primary defence, though I would add they still have lesser gun defences.

'But you only have to look at the comments in the media about Army pay to see there is disgruntlement, and spending is much, much lower now than during my time.'

A Royal Navy spokesman said: 'Sea Dart was deactivated in both ships last year, as part of a short-term decision to save money.

'The missiles have been moved to storage. However, the firing equipment has remained in the ships so Sea Dart can be reinstated if operational priorities change. With regards to HMS Exeter and her visits to the Mediterranean, the level of danger was not felt to be excessive.'

Both Type 42 vessels carry a 4.5inch medium range gun, which is maintained for use at any time. A Lynx helicopter onboard gives further offensive power and protection.