Ships of the Royal Navy: The Complete Record of all Fighting Ships of the Royal Navy from the 15th Century to the Present FULLY UPDATED AND EXPANDED

The fifth fully revised edition of a book first published in 1970, this longevity is testimony to its enduring value as a reference work. It contains 200 new entries and revisions to many older entries, reflecting the demise of post-Cold War ships and the introduction of new ships classes such as the _Queen Elizabeth_ class carriers, Type 45 destroyers, Type 26 frigates, and new patrol ships. Submarines are also being replaced by the _Astute_ class submarines, and the deterrent role is to be carried forward by the _Dreadnought_ class submarines. Updates to the Royal Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand navies are also included.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 416 pages
\n Publication date: 02 February 2021
\n Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd
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This fifth fully revised edition of a book first published in 1970 stands as a testament to its enduring value as a comprehensive reference work, universally known as Colledge. Its longevity attests to the timeless significance of its content, serving as the go-to source for anyone seeking detailed information on British warships from the fifteenth century to the present day, even when only the ship's name is known. Each entry provides concise details regarding dimensions, armament, and service dates, arranged alphabetically and chronologically for easy navigation. The Royal Navy's tradition of reusing names can sometimes be misleading, making the alphabetical and chronological arrangement invaluable in identifying the correct ship.

This new 5th edition boasts an impressive array of 200 new entries and revisions to numerous older entries, reflecting the changing landscape of the Royal Navy post-Cold War. As part of the peace dividend, the Royal Navy underwent significant downsizing, leading to the loss of notable ship classes such as the Type 42 destroyers, Type 22 frigates, and the illustrious Illustrious-class carriers. However, in the face of new global challenges, the Navy is undergoing a revitalization effort, introducing the remarkable Queen Elizabeth-class carriers, the largest ships ever built for the Royal Navy. These state-of-the-art vessels are accompanied by the Type 45 destroyers, Type 26 frigates, and new patrol ships, all designed to enhance the Navy's global policing capabilities.

Submarines cannot be overlooked, and the Cold War S-class and T-class submarines are being replaced by the advanced Astute-class submarines. The Vanguard-class submarines will continue to play a vital deterrent role, while the Dreadnought-class submarines will carry forward this mission. Additionally, the Royal Navy is expanding its fleet with the introduction of new RFAs, which are increasingly taking on frontline operations, allowing the small number of escorts to be redeployed to more combative roles.

Furthermore, this edition includes updates on the Royal Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand navies, each with their own programs to introduce new and innovative ships to their respective fleets. The Royal Navy's enduring legacy and commitment to excellence are evident in this comprehensive and meticulously revised edition, making it an invaluable resource for scholars, historians, and enthusiasts alike.

\n Weight: 964g\n
Dimension: 165 x 240 x 45 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781526793270\n
Edition number: 5 Revised edition\n