HMS Dauntless will be launched on the Clyde later this decade

First Sea Admiral Sir Alan West cut the first steel sheet for the HMS Dauntless warship which will safeguard 2,000 jobs at the Clyde yard.

He said it was "a momentous occasion" and an important step in producing the most advanced air destroyer fleet in the world.

The �5.5bn programme was ordered by the Ministry of Defence.

Production of the warships will also provide work for 650 staff at Portsmouth-based Vosper Thornycroft.

The steel I am cutting today officially starts the building of a ship which will form part of the most advanced air destroyer fleet in the world First Sea Admiral Sir Alan West

The six vessels - HMS Dauntless, Daring, Diamond, Defender, Dragon and Duncan - are due to be launched from the Clyde later this decade.

Admiral West said production on the latest warship would improve the Royal Navy's capabilities.

He said: "This is a really momentous occasion.

"The steel I am cutting today officially starts the building of a ship which will form part of the most advanced air destroyer fleet in the world and will provide a crucial capability for our powerful and modern Royal Navy.

'Sophisticated threats'

"These men and women are making a major and worthwhile contribution to defence in the UK and throughout the world, whilst continuing the proud history of shipbuilding on the Clyde for many years to come.

"It's not just about ships, it's about people. Clearly, the MoD's UK shipbuilding programme is sustaining hundreds of jobs in Scotland."

The Type 45 destroyers will weigh 7,350 tonnes, be 150 metres long and will be equipped with the Principal Anti-Air Missile System (Paams).

Minister for Defence Procurement Lord Bach said he believed the vessel would set new standards.