The UK will scrap five warships, dozens of military helicopters and a fleet of drones to save money despite growing threats from Russia and a war raging in Europe, Paralel.Az reports citing Sky News.

John Healey, the defence secretary, announced the dramatic move in parliament on Wednesday, saying it would save up to half a billion pounds over the next five years.

The defence secretary described the equipment being axed as "outdated" and said the "common sense" decision to retire them was long overdue.

He signalled the decision was part of a plan to restructure and modernise the armed forces, which have already been significantly reduced in size following decades of cost-saving cuts, with new capabilities due to come online to replace the gaps.

"We face increasing global threats," Mr Healey said in a written statement that was released at the same time as he addressed MPs.

"War in Europe, growing Russian aggression, conflict in the Middle East and technology changing the nature of warfare. As a result, defence needs increased resilience and readiness for the future."

At the same time, though, he said the defence budget faced "serious financial pressures".

He repeated a pledge that the government would set out a course to lift the defence budget to 2.5% of national income - but yet again without giving a date.

The defence secretary then spelt out what "difficult decisions" meant in reality.

"To ensure that Britain is kept secure at home and strong abroad in a changing world, defence needs to make changes too. Difficult decisions are required," he said.