An acclaimed military historian examines the vital role of British naval intelligence from the mid-nineteenth century to the end of the Cold War. In this comprehensive account, Andrew Boyd brings a critical new dimension to our understanding of British naval intelligence. From the capture of Napoleons signal codes to the satellite-based systems of the Cold War era, he provides a coherent and reliable overview while setting his subject in the larger context of the British state. It is a fascinating study of how naval needs and personalities shaped the British intelligence community that exists today. Boyd explains why and how intelligence was collected and assesses its real impact on policy and operations. Though he confirms that naval intelligence was critical to Britains victory in both World Wars, he significantly reappraises its role in each. He reveals that coverage of Germany before 1914 and of the three Axis powers in the interwar period was more comprehensive and effective than previously suggested; and while British power declined rapidly after 1945, the book shows how intelligence helped the Royal Navy to remain a significant global force for the rest of the twentieth century.

The essential compendium covering the year in naval developments—the only annual overview of its kind. For over a decade, this annual has provided an authoritative summary of all that has happened in the naval world in the previous twelve months, combining regional surveys with major articles on noteworthy new ships and other important developments. Besides the latest warship projects, it also looks at wider issues of significance to navies, such as aviation and weaponry, and calls on expertise from around the globe to give a balanced picture of what is going on and to interpret its significance. The latest of the in-depth “Significant Ships” series cover the US Navy’s America (LHA-6) class amphibious ships; the Singaporean Independence, an indigenous design of Littoral Mission Vessel; and the venerable Type 23 frigate, still the mainstay of the British Royal Navy’s surface fleet. Technological subjects include an analysis of stealth at sea by Norman Friedman, the US Standard missile family by Richard Scott, as well as David Hobbs’ regular review of naval aviation. This year the reviews of specific fleets focus on the navies of Sweden and Nigeria, two medium sized naval powers with very different histories. Firmly established as the only annual naval overview of its type, World Naval Review is essential reading for anyone—whether enthusiast or professional—interested in contemporary maritime affairs.

Overturns existing thinking to show that the Royal Navy engaged professionally in war planning in the years before the First World War.

This volume explores the intrigue and negotiations between the Admiralty and domestic politicians and social reformers before World War I. It also explains how Britain's naval leaders responded to non-military, cultural challenges under the direction of Adimiral Sir John Fisher.