BAE Systems is considering closing the historic Portsmouth dockyard in a move that would threaten up to 3,000 jobs.

The Hampshire based defence giant has brought in consultants to review its shipbuilding operations.

A decision on the future of the south coast base is expected within in the next three months, according to reports today.

Portsmouth is the most likely victim of a review of the group’s warship business, senior industry sources have been reported as saying, with a lack of orders after the two new Royal Navy aircraft carriers.

BAE employs about 1,500 at its Portsmouth yard with a further 1,500 in support roles. The city has a 500 year history of Naval shipbuilding.

The company also has yards on the Clyde, at Scotstoun and Govan, and at Portsmouth. All are working on hull sections of the carriers.

A BAE spokeswoman said: ''As part of our business planning activity, we are reviewing how best to retain the capability to deliver and support complex warships in the UK in the future.''

This would be in line with its commitments, she added.

''This work is ongoing and we will keep our employees and trade union representatives fully informed, as it progresses.''

Unions have called for urgent meetings with BAE Systems bosses.