Seaforth World Naval Review: 2019

I am an avid reader of Seaforth Publications. I have many of their books in my library. However, this 2019 edition of the "World Naval Review" is the first time I have bought one of these books. The reason I bought this book was mainly for the articles on the USN's largest ever ship, (the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford - CVN 78), and also on the R.N's largest ever ship, (the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth - R08).My main interest are military aviation, and the history of naval warfare from 1906 onwards. These come together in the world of carrier aviation, so this is my pet interest, with special emphasis on the history of the Fleet Air Arm.I must confess that I have not finished all of this book. I read section 1, the Overview and Introduction, then jumped straight to section 3, Significant Ships.. I found both Scott Truver's article on CVN-78, and Conrad Waters' on R08, to be concise and illuminating. These were accompanied with appropriate tables, diagrams and photo's, (including many in colour). We were taken through the design, construction and cost histories of both classes of these vessels. One aspect of the QE's build I wanted to especially cover was its propulsion system. This was very adequately explained to my satisfaction. I then continued on with section 4, covering world naval aviation, modern naval communications, and autonomous systems. All fascinating subjects. by authors who know what they are talking about. (I think I am glad that I will not be around when the robots take over)!I am currently reading section 2, World Fleet Reviews. I did not realise how low the Royal Canadian Navy had sunk, (excuse the pun). It is even in a worse state than our own.My overall impression of this book is that it is very well written, very well produced, (I did not spot many proof reading errors), and containing pin sharp photo's, (many in colour), and produced on excellent glossy paper.The editor/authors of the various pieces, and the publishers are to be congratulated on producing such a fine volume.A sad aspect, from a patriotic point of view, (nothing to do with the afore-mentioned), is the fact that the 5 new "Tide" class RFA vessels were built in South Korea, and not this country.Another worry concerns the F-35 aircraft. Firstly it is taking far to long to get into service. Secondly it costs to much. Thirdly, and most worrying from a naval point of view, it will be operated as a "Joint Lightning Force" with the RAF. As David Hobbs says on page 164, quoting Sir Thomas Inskip in 1937, this set-up just DOES NOT WORK. Don't politicians, treasury officials, Air Marshalls and Admirals read their history books!!!

Annual purchase for the hubby's Christmas present. As usual very professional, good quality product. Can't comment on the content but the glossy boat pics look cool 😊

Pleased with purchase

Gives you a real understanding of naval affairs, not just figures. Highly recommended.

Exactly what it says on the book cover. Perfect!

Reference

Yet another quality addition to the series

Fantastic photo's & very detailed as always.