Naval attachés as the working layer of naval diplomacy

What role do naval attachés play in diplomacy?

They combine liaison and intelligence work with the practical organization of ship visits, supplies, and security.

A naval attaché serves as the regular liaison between a visiting service and the local navy. The post supplies estimates of local fleet strength and knowledge of the host country's naval industry. It also handles the practical work behind port visits, from fuel and stores to crew excursions and security. Naval diplomacy therefore depends on routine professional relationships as much as on ambassadors and senior admirals.