Naval warfare - Richard Humble

The clash of the nations on the high seas has had a profound effect on world history. Ever since the first hand-to-hand galley-battles of Classical times, states have relied for their survival and prosperity on the strength of the sea power. Each new advance in technology has, in time, produced a counter-measure, and, as the balance tipped this way and that, the deadly efficiency of today's missile-armed navies has evolved.Naval Warfare is divided into six parts, each dealing with a particular era of naval history. The introductions to each part give an in-depth account of the new technology of that age, and the resultant innovations in naval tactics and strategy. There are separate sections on many major naval campaigns from the sea-battles of Ancient Greece and Rome, through the Spanish Armada and Trafalgar, right up to post WWII and the Falklands War. The most important naval commanders, from Drake and Hawkins to Anson, Nelson, and Dnitz, are also featured separately, together with accounts of their most famous battles.

Richard Humble specialised in military history at Oriel College, and has written fifteen books since graduating in 1966. His main interest has always been naval history. He is the official biographer of Admiral of the Fleet Lord Fraser of North Cape.