Synopsis
The technological advances in the machinery of space, nuclear and air warfare have obscured the importance of naval power. Using examples from Ancient Greece to the Gulf War, Gray argues that control of the sea is vital to strategic planning. The book shows how the various ways in which sea-power can be used to decisively influence the outcome of general conflicts. Sparta required a fleet to bring about the destruction of the Athenian Empire, the lack of access to the sea was a fatal weakness for Germany in both World Wars, whilst in the Gulf War, the ability of the western powers and their allies to bring up vast amounts of armour and supplies unchallenged was a key factor in the outcome of the war.
Reviews
The president of the National Institute for Public Policy argues forcefully that maintaining a strong navy is the best way to win wars. Tracing the historical pattern from antiquity to the present, defense analyst Gray offers historical case studies including the Persian and Peloponnesian wars, Rome's battles against Carthage, the rise and fall of Venice and England's wars with France. Turning to the modern era, he demonstrates the decisive role sea power played in both world wars and in the Cold War. In Gray's view, recent technological, economic, military and political changes in no way diminish the strategic leverage of sea power, which he considers the "timeless midwife of victory." Although the U.S. Navy is presently shifting its principal focus from control of the high seas to shoreline tactics, Gray predicts that U.S. control of the seven seas is unlikely to be disputed for years to come.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
With the demise of the "evil empire" of the Soviet Union, many are questioning the necessity, indeed desirability, of navies. In this historical study of navies in war, Gray (president, National Inst. for Public Policy) argues that superior sea power generates a strategic leverage that enables countries to win wars. Using case studies beginning with the Persians and Greeks in 480 B.C. and ending with the demise of the Cold War, he arrives at a number of conclusions supporting the strategic use of sea power. These conclusions are buttressed by extensive documentation and bibliography that provide a virtual review of the important works in maritime history. In scope and detail impressive as the works of naval historian Alfred Thayer Mahan, this book will find a ready audience among those interested in the future of world sea power. For academic libraries and specialists in the field.
- Harold N. Boyer, Marple P.L., Broomall, Pa.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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