Naval science fiction that follows fleets as they grow

Which fictional navies stand out across fantasy and science-fiction eras?

Empire Rising is recommended for an evolving navy, with Glynn Stewart's books and the Black Library suggested as other starting points.

D. J. Holmes's Empire Rising series follows a navy as technology changes and its fleet expands. That makes it a recommendation for readers interested in development across successive naval eras within a fictional setting. Glynn Stewart's books offer another entry point into naval science fiction. The Warhammer 40,000 Black Library receives a separate recommendation for its authors and grimdark setting.