The Royal Navy Handbook: Ministry of Defence Book

The definitive guide to the structure of today's Royal Navy. Includes background details and ship and weapons specifications of every serving vessel and weapons system in the Royal Navy. Examines Strategic Forces, Combat forces, Support Forces, The Royal Marines, Naval Bases, Historic Ships and Future Projects. Color illustrations and plans of every class of vessel including future projects. Compiled by the Ministry of Defense with foreword by Secretary of State for Defense Bt Hon Geoff Hoon and introduction by Admiral Sir Alan West, First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff. The Royal Navy Handbook provides the only official definitive guide to the structure of the Royal Navy of today and the future. From the Strategic defense forces of the Vanguard class of SSBNs, through the surface and submarine fleet, including the details of proposed new carriers, destroyers and submarines, to maritime airpower and the Rapid Deployment forces, the Royal Marines Commandos, to the vital Support forces of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, Marine services and shore naval bases, this is the complete work of reference for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Every class of ship, aircraft and vehicle is included with a brief background, complete specifications and a color illustration. The guide also includes details of the future procurement plans of the Royal Navy, a section on the historic ships of the navy, including HMS Victory and Belfast and a complete list of RN and RFA pennant numbers.Read More