The machine replaces a DC545 and joins a raft of other Duplo kit at the facility which includes a DB200 perfect binder, a DF1000 folder and an Ideal guillotine.

According to Mike Tanner, head of Royal Naval Graphics, the creaser/cutter/slitter has been an "invaluable" piece of kit and joins the printer's existing Océ and Xerox presses.

He said: "It isn't used 24/7, but the new machine has been a great success. It has more options than the 545 and it is far easier to set up, which brings big time savings. It has also allowed us to print on thicker stock."

The plant works exclusively for the Royal Navy, employing three print staff – one full-time and two part-time. Items printed include life-saving equipment guides, visitor safety guides, invitations and deployment booklets.

Tanner said he hopes to take the total annual impressions up to 750,000 by the end of this year.