Nelson to Vanguard is the third volume in D K Brown’s bestselling series on warship design and development looks at the Royal Navy’s response to the restrictions placed on it by the Washington Naval Treaties in the inter-war years, and analyses the fleet that was constructed to fight the Second World War. He focusses on the principal pre-war developments such as the first purpose-built aircraft carriers and the growing perception of the threat of air attack to warships. All the wartime construction programmes are covered, such as the massive expansion in escort ships to counter the U-boat menace, and the development of the amphibious warfare fleet for the D-Day landings in 1944. Full analysis is also provided of the experience of wartime damage, as well as the once top secret pre- and post-war damage trials. Illustrated throughout with a superb collection of contemporary photographs and numerous line drawings, this now classic work is required reading for naval historians and enthusiasts.

An illustrated history and analysis of the Royal Navy’s warships before and during WWII—their design, development, and adaptation to new threats. Nelson to Vanguard, the third volume in D.K. Brown’s bestselling series on warship design and development, looks at the Royal Navy’s response to the restrictions placed on it by the Washington Naval Treaties in the interwar years, and analyzes the fleet that was constructed to fight the Second World War. The author focuses on the principal prewar developments, such as the first purpose-built aircraft carriers and the growing perception of the threat of air attack to warships. All the wartime construction programs are covered, such as the massive expansion in escort ships to counter the U-boat menace, and the development of the amphibious warfare fleet for the D-Day landings in 1944. Full analysis is also provided of the experience of wartime damage, as well as the once top secret pre- and postwar damage trials. Illustrated throughout with a superb collection of contemporary photographs and numerous line drawings, this now classic work is an essential read for naval historians and enthusiasts.

Despite the many celebrated victories of the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars, the role of the Royal Navy should never be overlooked. The 'wooden walls' formed the country's first and most important line of defence, and ranged throughout the world to protect Britain's trade-routes and in support of the land forces and overseas possessions. This book covers the huge variations in uniforms not just in the Navy but the Royal Marines and Infantry regiments which served alongside naval crews. It also looks at the organisation, training and recruitment of the force and corrects a number of misconceptions regarding impressment and training.

A foreword by Patrick O'Brian introduces this definitive reference work, which stands as one of the most successful titles in Conway's 40-year history, with an impressive sales record to match. This book is the essential guide to Nelson's Navy for all those with an interest in the workings of the greatest fleet of the sailing era. The book is eminently readable and was the first single-volume work to cover in such depth this vast and complex subject. Written by one of the world's leading authorities on the sailing navy, the book contains considerable original research to give a clear and authentic picture of the Senior Service as a coherent yet complex whole. The book is also an indispensable reference for all readers of historical novels set during the age of Nelson, from the Aubrey-Maturin novels to Hornblower, Thomas Kydd and beyond. Original Edition ISBN: 9780851775210

- The ultimate source book on the life and times of Britain's greatest naval hero - Includes the latest findings and controversies surrounding the famous admiral - Provides an ideal introduction to the world of the Royal Navy at the pinnacle of its success

From his first dramatic initiatives at the Battle of St. Vincent in 1797 to his last battle at Trafalgar in 1805, Horatio Nelson was a force to be reckoned with and a hero to his countrymen. This illuminating study of the battles that played such an important role in Napoleon's defeat also takes a close look at the admiral's art of naval warfare. It shows that Nelson was quick to adapt new ideas and technical developments. This prowess, and a remarkable ability to lead and a genius for making decisive moves, made him the consummate master of naval warfare. This newly revised edition provides the most up-to-date analysis of Nelson's victories available.