Preventive maintenance defines real fleet strength

A navy's published ship count can differ sharply from the force it can actually use. A hull contributes real strength only if its capabilities remain current and its maintenance state permits operations. Replacing components before failure costs more up front, but it is cheaper and less disruptive over the life of the fleet than waiting for machinery to break. Overseas docks therefore expand global presence by keeping ships ready near their stations rather than forcing every major task back to Britain.