Navy and RAF still infected by virus

Ministry of Defence denies claims that attack originated in Russia

Some Navy ships have been hit by the virus

The virus infection that hit the Royal Navy last week is continuing to affect systems across the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Reports suggest that several ships and RAF bases are having problems sending emails as a result of the attack, although the MoD said it is not affecting operations nor threatening classified information.

The MoD has also denied claims that the virus may have originated from somewhere in Russia.

The infected computers are part of the NavyStar system used for purposes such as storekeeping, email and internet access. The system connects to wider networks by shore connection when vessels are in harbour and using satellites when at sea.

Last week, HMS Ark Royal was hit by the virus.

"Since 6 January the performance of the MoD IT systems in a number of areas was affected by a virus. Immediate action was taken to isolate the problem to stop the virus from spreading," said an MoD spokesman at the time.