Seaforth World Naval Review 2024

Some people wait for the first cuckoo of Spring, I find myself anticipating Conard Waters’ annual look at the world navies, and in particular his opening quote. This year he has chosen a 13th century Persian poet who warns of the dangers of enemies who form a joint vision – in this instance Russia and China who have formed “a joint strategic partnership of coordination”. With Russia’s defence spending increased by over 9%, China’s has grown by 63 % over the decade and their Navy is now larger than that of USA. His Introduction ends by highlighting the use of force by Russia, a member of the UN Security Council, and the impact of the Russian invasion on global defence spending. For the US Navy, the funding difficulties in attempting a “once in a generation change in fleet architecture” are likely to see a reduction in overall numbers. The Ford carriers still have problems with both EMALS and arrestor gear; the Ticonderoga cruisers with their large missile capacity are being paid off, but the potent Arleigh Burke Flight III are now being delivered. The LCS have not been successful and are being steadily withdrawn whilst the new Constellation FFG programme is slipping. On the submarine front there are calls to increase SSN numbers whilst building the new Columbia SSBNs – and then there is AUKUS! Adding to pressures has been a growing backlog of repairs. The Brazilian Navy is “entering its third century” with ambitious plans for its fleet including 4 submarines to the French Scorpene design and an indigenous SSN. Brazil is also planning to build five 3,500 ton frigates to a MEKO design, but financial pressures point towards block obsolescence of much of their surface fleet. The Asia Pacific sees significant shifts in posture. Japan’s strictly defensive stance has been quietly modified to one of growing offensive capability, her submarine fleet comprises 22 SSKs and her DD/FF force has grown by 2 vessels year on year. Australia’s intention to acquire SSNs (AUKUS) is likely to see reductions to the surface fleet programme, notably the Hunter Type 26 derivative, in line with a defence review advocating more smaller surface vessels (quality versus quantity!). China is closing the technology gap with the US and her shipbuilding sector is now the largest in the world. India has commissioned their first indigenously built carrier – and also changed their naval ensign – an indication of her desire for self reliance. An in depth look at the Indian Kolkata Class multi role destroyer includes criticism of their low missile loads, but the range of equipment fitted has inevitable space implications. A chapter looks at Spanish S80 large conventional submarines which have had a troubled gestation including redesign, but the first boat is now at sea after some 20 years. The Royal Navy also suffers from financial pressures; fleet numbers have dwindled amidst cries of “jam tomorrow” – Type 26 , 31 and 32(?) and 3 solid support ships for the RFA. The submarine programme includes the Dreadnought SSBN, the UK’s most expensive defence project, and Astute replacement. Both carriers are now operational but QE goes to refit in 2024. Increasing emphasis on unmanned aircraft and small craft continues and the NSM and Sea Ceptor will equip Type 45s. Now in its 15th year, this series never fails to deliver. This review is just a snapshot of key topics but there is more – regional coverage, the Hellenic navy, French overseas patrol vessels, and a look at naval aviation and propulsion programmes. It remains the most amazingly authoritative look at the world’s navies and, as I have remarked before, if you can only afford one book to study the navies of the world, this is the book. Very highly recommended.