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Defense Secretary Leon Panetta laid out his proposed budget cuts at a briefing for reporters Thursday. (Photo/Getty Images via DayLife)

— Some members of the Missouri delegation to congress reacted negatively Thursday, after Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta detailed nearly $260 billion in budget cuts for the Pentagon.

Panetta laid out plans to trim the size of the service by nearly 95,000, cut 35 ships from the Navy fleets, cut a handful of fighter squadrons from the Air Force, and initiate a new round of base closures.

U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, R., said while he believes defense cuts should be “on the table” as an option to reduce the debt, he does not support Panetta’s proposal.

“We should not forget that our nation continues to face real enemies around the world who wish us harm,” Blunt said. “I will not support any moves that ultimately weaken America’s ability to defend and protect ourselves.”

The $259 billion in cuts would be the first installment of the Defense Department’s $487 billion required by the debt reduction law, approved by congress and signed by the president, last year.

U.S. Rep. Vicky Hartzler, R.-Harrisonville, who serves on the House Armed Services Committee, said she thinks Panetta’s proposals could jeopardize national security.

“I am concerned that today’s proposals will weaken our defenses by slashing the Army and Marines as well as mothballing our ships and aircraft,” she said.

Rep. Todd Akin, R.-St. Louis, who chairs the seapower subcommittee, said he feels domestic programs should be cut instead of defense spending.

“When will the President get serious about reforming mandatory spending programs, which are the real problems facing our national budget,” Akin asked. “Taken in whole, these cuts will create a more dangerous world for America and her allies.”

Outside the Missouri delegation, the proposed cuts faced a chilly reception by other House lawmakers. They are expected to be included as part of President Obama’s budget proposal, which he plans to send to Congress early next month.