Finding a modern naval warfare primer

What books provide a primer on modern naval warfare and warship types?

Start with a good Jane's reference or the more affordable Warships International Fleet Review, supplemented by current online material.

A current Jane's reference can orient readers to ship classes and capabilities. The difficulty is cost: detailed modern naval reference books are often specialist publications, so websites may be the more practical entry point for beginners. Warships International Fleet Review offers a less expensive, image-rich way to follow current fleets. The combination gives a beginner both structured reference data and continuing coverage of new ships and systems.