News, Articles and Comment

Ed. The author explores the progressive integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) into RN fleet operations. The strategic and operational advantages of UAV and autonomous systems in modern naval warfare are undeniable and will only continue to grow. A 10 minute read.

Ed. Bruce Pascoe responds to Arthur Nicholson, with specific regard to the enigma of Phillips’ decision-making and failure to radio for air support during the Malay oki kaisen.

BRE. The latest book review is now available. It considers two books from Osprey, providing accounts of the Japanese A6M2/3 Zero and US Navy F6F Hellcat in the South Pacific and Philippines in the Second World War respectively.

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. Our correspondent, an expert on the fate of Force Z, responds to Bruce Pascoe’s analysis of Admiral Tom Phillips’ decision-making during the Malay oki kaisen.

Ed. Gazing at his crystal ball (history is prophecy in reverse!), the author ponders contemporary failures to learn the lessons of history.

Ed. The author explores the PQ17 disaster, questioning First Sea Lord Dudley Pound’s decision to scatter the convoy in the face of Luftwaffe and Kriegsmarine threats. The principles of mission command should have left the decision to the convoy commanders. A 25 minute read.

Ed. Carrier Power offering Defence options…

Ed. ‘NIHL RHYFEL’

In Spring 2023, Lt Col Cripsin Black’s book Too Thin for a Shroud was published. In it he defends robustly 5 Bde’s C2 and the Welsh Guards’ who were still on board the LSLs RFA Sir Galahad and Sir Tristram on 8 June 1982 when they were attacked by the Argentinian Air Force during the Falklands conflict. Over 40 years after the event the opportunity for many, both Green and Navy Blue involved in these events no longer exists, however, the authors of the following  article layout the reasons why they seriously disagree with the book’s suggestions. The Naval Review is an ideal place to hold this rebuttal on record for the benefit of those that wish to study Operation CORPORATE, Amphibious Operations and the fog of war (nihl rhyfel). The following is a review essay dissecting Black’s claims. A 50 minute read.