British Coastal Forces: Two World Wars and After

During the First and Second World Wars, the Royal Navy developed and employed fast motor torpedo boats, which played a crucial role in defending British coastal waters. This book explores the history of British coastal forces, their operations, and the technological innovations they employed, including the development of coastal craft and weapons. It also highlights the significant contributions of British coastal forces to the Normandy invasion and other campaigns.

Format: Hardback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The Royal Navy revolutionized naval warfare during the First World War by inventing the fast motor torpedo boat, which it deployed alongside other small coastal craft to tremendous effect. This book delves into the captivating story of British coastal forces, showcasing their offensive and defensive capabilities in both World Wars and beyond.

In the Second World War, British coastal forces faced a daunting challenge as they battled to control the narrow seas, particularly the Channel and the North Sea. They bravely took the war to the shores of German-occupied Europe, where larger warships could not be risked. Their contributions were significant in the Mediterranean theater, but their primary focus was on warfare in home waters.

Norman Friedman, in this book, skillfully weaves together the technical details of coastal craft and their weapons, along with the strategies and tactics employed by British coastal forces. The technology employed during both world wars was cutting-edge, pushing the boundaries of what was possible. British innovation played a pivotal role in the design and development of coastal forces craft, while significant contributions from the United States, particularly in the supply of high-powered engines, were also invaluable.

Unlike larger warships, British coastal forces craft were primarily shaped by a few builders, and their contributions are given full credit. These vessels were not only used for offensive operations but also for air-sea rescue missions. An appendix provides a comprehensive description of these rescue craft.

This fascinating and dramatic story has contemporary relevance for modern naval thinkers who are concerned with gaining or denying access to hostile shores. While the technology has evolved, the underlying realities of coastal warfare remain unchanged. The book provides an extensive account of how coastal forces supported the Normandy invasion, serving as a testament to their bravery and adaptability.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of British coastal forces' history, from their inception during the First World War to their pivotal role in World War II and beyond. It sheds light on the technological advancements, strategic challenges, and the remarkable contributions of these forces to naval warfare. By examining the technical aspects of coastal craft and their deployment, Friedman provides a deep understanding of the role played by British coastal forces in shaping the course of history.

Dimension: 289 x 245 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399018586