According to sources cited by Interfax, the ships were carrying marines on a training mission, as well as food and fuel for the maintenance and repair base.

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The Vale of Glamorgan MP Mr Smith said he had evidence that the agency was considering ending repair work at the base altogether.

BBC: News Online

Regardless of market share upside, it is our view that RIM is now in a good position to successfully stabilize its base, which will help repair its brand reputation and push shipments higher on a year-over-year basis off a low base.

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The average one will last 22 years before it needs repair, says Wolfgang Fraissinet, president of marketing and sales at Neumann's base in Berlin.

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