The review says the navy should have “a larger number of smaller surface vessels”, which has put the troubled $45 billion Hunter-class frigates in the frame for cuts. Current plans call for nine of Britain’s BAE Systems’ anti-submarine warfare frigates, which are nearing 10,000 tonnes in weight, but there is widespread industry expectation the number could be reduced to six or even as little as three to free up cash for smaller warships or additional destroyers. German shipbuilder Luerssen is also building 12 patrol boats for the navy but there is speculation that order could be halted at six. Luerssen...