Publisher's Synopsis
Once the world's largest and most powerful naval force, the Royal Navy is now moving towards the second division as regards the number of ships, bu it has managed to maintain its position as number one in training, personnel and professionalism. The challenge for the Royal Navy as it moves towards the 21st century is to maintain that credibility in the face of defence cuts and changing commitments.;This is a detailed survey of the Senior Service as it is today and how it has been shaped by events since the end of World War II. Present-day equipment, operations and personnel are all documented, together with the anticipated changes yet to come in all these areas.;The book includes: comprehensive details of all ships, large and small, currently in naval service, including support vessels; a full description of naval weapons and sensors; detailed specifications of naval aircraft and their weapons; and descriptions of all naval bases, dockyards and key establishments.;Separate chapters cover Support Services including the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Service, Fleet Replenishment Ships and the Royal Maritime Auxiliary Service, the Royal Marines and their weapons, and Personnel.
