The Ministry of Defence has denied newspaper reports that it is struggling to cope with frontline crises within the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy.

A spokesman for the MoD admitted that there was a "strain" on resources, but insisted both arms of the military were ready to deal with all operational requirements.

The statement came amid claims that the RAF was beset by problems including "crippled" aircraft, malfunctioning technology and a shortage of pilots.

Fuel shortages

A separate report claimed that the Royal Navy's principal warships had been confined to port because of fuel shortages.

An MoD spokesman told BBC News Online that it was still capable of mounting operational forces.

He said: "There is a strain on the Navy's resources, we've had a large number of operations over the past 12 months, with Kosovo, East Timor and the Gulf. And there has been a huge increase in fuel prices.

"But, it is not true to say that our ships are confined to port. Most are home for the holiday season.

"On January 14 we sent out one of our largest training deployments, led by HMS Illustrious with 10 other ships to the Gulf, which will include a series of goodwill visits to the area.

"By Monday, we will have 24 ships travelling overseas."

The spokesman also denied reports that two-thirds of the UK's 186-strong fleet of Tornado bombers were grounded.

Lack of pilots

"Those that are not currently flying are in maintenance, not grounded. And these are extremely capable of coming on line in the event of any major problems," he said.

However, he confirmed that there was a shortage of crack fighter pilots, with many being lured away by lucrative commercial contracts.

"We recognise that this is a problem, not just for the RAF but for armed forces worldwide."

He said the RAF was introducing a package of measures, including additional pay, extended careers and direct recruitment, to counter the problem.