Norman Friedman's studies of American carriers, battleships, destroyers, and frigates are recommended for their detail, although his British volumes sometimes approach Royal Navy decisions through an American frame. Refuelling, doctrine, and ship design have to be judged against what each navy intended to accomplish for its country. The relevant test is whether a force achieves its objectives. It must also avoid losses so severe that it cannot continue fighting.
Chapter · 4:09-9:18
Reading warship histories through national perspectives
A book review becomes a guide to judging warship histories against each navy's own strategic needs rather than treating one service as the universal standard.