Tories blast helicopters 'scandal'

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And he indicated that an incoming Conservative Government would prioritise the immediate equipment needs of frontline troops over long-term defence spending plans.

Current plans see billions of pounds tied up in projects like the Trident nuclear deterrent, new aircraft carriers and the Eurofighter jet.

Mr Cameron was speaking as former Defence Secretary John Hutton added his voice to growing calls for better resourcing of the Afghan campaign.

Writing in the Sunday Telegraph, Mr Hutton said the mood among troops on the ground was "unequivocal" on the need for more manpower, helicopters and protection against roadside bombs.

He made clear he backs the Government's strategy in Afghanistan, but said: "It is going to take more resources to properly execute... It is clear we need more logistical support to reduce the risk of as much of the troop movements and supply effort as possible."

Mr Hutton said he was sure that "urgent discussions" were taking place on boosting the 9,000-strong British deployment and called for a promised review of troop numbers to be brought forward from October.

Calls for more helicopters and men have swelled this month as casualties have mounted, with 16 British deaths in just two weeks. On Friday, Chief of Defence Staff Sir Jock Stirrup went to Downing Street with a "shopping list" of requirements drawn up by the head of the Army General Sir Richard Dannatt during his recent visit to Afghanistan.

Gen Dannatt's outspoken comments over the last week are reported to have caused friction with ministers, and he pulled out of a scheduled appearance on BBC1's Andrew Marr Show at the last minute in an apparent bid to calm tensions.