Fighting in the Dark: Naval Combat at Night, 1904 1945

Fighting in the Dark is a new book about naval combat at night, which also signifies the overarching theme of moving from dark to light. Three inventions changed this: the torpedo, the searchlight, and the radio, which transformed naval warfare by making combat in the dark feasible and desirable. The book is about how Russian, British, German, Italian, Japanese, and US navies confronted the specific new challenges and adapted to unfamiliar situations and emerging technologies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Fighting in the Dark is a captivating new book that delves into the realm of naval combat during nighttime, while also serving as a metaphor for the overarching theme of transitioning from darkness to light. The authors embark on a thought-provoking exploration, beginning with the assertion that striking an invisible target, particularly one in motion, poses significant challenges. In the nineteenth century, when visual signaling and communication relied on hailing, night battles at sea were rare and often accidental. However, three remarkable inventions—the torpedo, searchlight, and radio—revolutionized naval warfare by enabling combat in the dark. These technological advancements occurred at the end of the nineteenth and the beginning of the twentieth centuries, transforming the nature of naval engagements.

The process by which navies adapted to the dark and utilized it as a medium for effective combat was arduous and varied, with different navies facing unique challenges and adapting in different ways. This book sheds light on this transformative journey, focusing on the experiences of Russian, British, German, Italian, Japanese, and US navies as they confronted the diverse new challenges and embraced unfamiliar situations and emerging technologies.

Comprised of chapters authored by a collective of esteemed naval historians, Fighting in the Dark offers a unique perspective on how different navies approached common problems. The book's approach illuminates the diverse approaches and cultural nuances employed by these navies, highlighting their adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity. The vivid descriptions of night-time battles serve as a powerful metaphor for the broader issues at play, guiding the reader on a captivating journey through naval warfare from the Russo-Japanese War to World War I, and from the Pacific to the English Channel.

Through its comprehensive exploration, Fighting in the Dark provides valuable insights into the complexities of naval warfare during nighttime. It sheds light on the strategies, tactics, and technological advancements that shaped the course of history, highlighting the profound impact of these innovations on the art of warfare at sea. Whether you are a military enthusiast, history buff, or simply interested in the intricacies of naval history, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this fascinating and challenging period.

Weight: 844g
Dimension: 163 x 240 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399030519