Britain will go-ahead with plans for two 65,000 ton class aircraft carriers, says John Hutton, the country's recently appointed secretary of state for defense.

With London revisiting equipment and budgetary priorities there has been speculation that the carrier program, known as CVF, could be at risk. Hutton, however, is adamant the program will continue.

"The carrier is definitely going to proceed," Hutton told the British Parliament's Defense Select Committee on Nov. 12. "We have done the deal on the carriers."

Hutton added that the CVF "is fundamental to any conception of an effective Royal Navy that I can envisage ... and it brings with it a whole range of other equipment priorities."

The two aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales, are due now to enter service in 2014 and 2016. The in-service dates have already been delayed from 2012 and 2014.

The two ships will replace the navy's Invincible class of carrier, with the Harrier GR9 slated to be replaced by the Lockheed Martin F-35B Lighting II strike fighter. The latter aircraft is due to enter service in 2017.

While willing to discuss the carrier, Hutton was unwilling to discuss the broader outcome of the so-called equipment examination, a study that is due to conclude in the coming few weeks.

Artist's concept: BAE Systems