News, Articles and Comment

Ed. In July 1997 (NR 85/3, p. 202) Lt G D Franklin reviewed the experience of the British Pacific Fleet (BPF) in the war against Japan, observing that, although the valuable combat lessons paid dividends in Korea, by the time of the Falklands conflict they had seemingly been forgotten. Republished here for the 78^th anniversary of VJ Day. A 25 minute read.

Ed. The Naval Review‘s Briefing Room is being expanded to include expert summaries on UK Defence institutions and formations. Currently on file are summaries of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) and, reproduced here, the United Kingdom Carrier Strike Group (UKCSG).

Ed. In a fascinating investigation of the real maritime capacities of Russia and NATO in the Baltic, the author concludes that the ascension of Finland and Sweden into NATO gives the Allies a crushing preponderance in those waters. Winner of the Eric Grove prize for BRNC Dartmouth. A 25 minute read

Ed. The author argues that there is a world of difference between the promise of the AUKUS agreement and its actual implementation; considering the real strategic challenges and political imperatives facing the partner nations. A 10 minute read.

Ed. The author suggests an expanded international role for the RN’s subsurface surveillance capability, particularly with regard to building capacity to deter PLAN hybrid operations against Taiwan’s communications network. A 10 minute read.

Ed. The author provides an important update on USN and RN nuclear submarine developments, highlighting the major challenges for the Services and the industrial base over the next decade. A 5 minute read.

Ed. The author surveys the Delivering Combined Seapower (DCS) concept, with the goal of moving from interoperable USN-RN operations to a more thoroughly integrated interchangeable dynamic. Credit to the United States Center for Maritime Strategy, originally published on the Maritime Ops Center website (https://centerformaritimestrategy.org/publications/strengthening-the-special-relationship-delivering-combined-sea-power/). A 5 minute read.

Ed. Between 1978 and 2022 James Goldrick wrote 45 ‘Letters From Australia’, providing the Naval Review with invaluable insights from the island continent. Reprinted here are the first two letters, published in 1978 [66/4, p. 313] and 1979 [67/2, p. 119], to provide the younger reader with a taste of Master Ned’s trademark didactic analysis and wit. A memorial service for Rear Admiral Goldrick is being held on April 5th at Christopher’s Cathedral in Canberra.