News, Articles and Comment

Ed. Firstly a bit of good news. A warm welcome to BMT Group, who have joined the Naval Review as our first Corporate Sponsor. Also, a particular thank you to our female membership and supporters who have been pulling out the stops, and as a consequence I am delighted to report that seven articles in this edition have been written, and contributed to, by women. Dr James Smith’s article on pg 264 deserves special mention, for those that follow the website Forum where we have enjoyed a serious debate over how the country failed to hold on to a maritime strategy in the 20th century. With the weight of articles we are currently receiving we are unable to reproduce this debate beyond the article in this edition, but please consider going online and joining in!

Ed. As the perils of global conflict increase, alarm bells ring in defence analysts’ corridors. Concern over immediate deficiencies renew calls for Jeune Ecole and continentalist approaches, when, as Nelson knew, there simply may be no alternative to ‘want of frigates’.

BRE. The latest book review is now available. It considers an edited volume exploring the development of Western maritime strategy in the 21st century.

BRE. The latest book review is now available. It considers two books examining Admiral Nimitz’ performance as commander of the US Navy’s Pacific Fleet in the Second World War.

Ed. Matthew Wills paints a vivid picture of Churchill’s crossing to Newfoundland for the famous August 1941 Atlantic Conference meeting with Roosevelt. The firm hand of Captain John C Leach of HMS Prince of Wales ensured a smooth crossing for this high diplomatic mission. A 10 minute read.

Ed. Contrary to doom and gloom predictions of NATO decline under a potential second Trump Presidency, Rob Fry argues that, with US strategic imperatives invariably prioritizing the Pacific theatre, it is high time European leaders demonstrate resolve. Originally published in The Article. A 10 minute read.

BRE. The latest book review is now available. Professor Andrew Lambert considers David F. Winkler’s America’s First Aircraft Carrier, examining the history of the USS Langley: “a history book for contemporary revolutionaries, engaged with new technologies, and new ideas. How does the future break through into the fleet?”

Ed. The author questions the necessity of Continuous At Sea Deterrence (CASD), considering the strain this has placed on boats and crew members.

Ed. Extreme weather events and climate change have increased the stakes for regional engagement in the South Pacific, with China and the US vying for strategic influence. The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) will need renewed investment to continue tackling climate emergencies. A 35 minute read.