Description

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In the years after World War II, new guided missile technology offered surface ships the chance to destroy airborne threats from afar, thereby preserving their role in naval warfare. This book examines the technology and combat performance of Britain's guided missile destroyers over half a century.

Uniquely among modern destroyers, three of these classes have been tested in battle against the aircraft and missiles of another modern navy--in the Falklands War--and were also deployed during the Gulf War. Written by an expert on British naval technology, this book assess the changing technology of the Royal Navy's destroyers, including an examination of the Royal Navy's newest and most capable warship, the Type 45.

About the Author

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Edward Hampshire is a historian at the Naval Historical Branch of the Ministry of Defence. He has lectured at the Joint Services Command and Staff College and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and worked for ten years at the United Kingdom National Archives. He has written on the Cold War at sea, British defence policy and intelligence history, and is currently researching British naval policy in the 1980s. His publications include From East of Suez to Eastern Atlantic, British Naval Policy 1964-70 and (co-authored) British Intelligence: Secrets, Spies and Sources.

Paul Wright has painted ships of all kinds for most of his career, specializing in steel and steam warships from the late 19th century to the present day. Paul's art has illustrated the works of Patrick O'Brian, Dudley Pope and C.S. Forester amongst others, and hangs in many corporate and private collections all over the world. A Member of the Royal Society of Marine Artists, Paul lives and works in Surrey.

Praise For…

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"As a retired US Naval Officer I had the privilege of visiting and serving in Royal Navy ships including the later Type 42 destroyers. This book is a good overview of the systems and ships and a superb addition to the body of knowledge on the modern Royal Navy. This book is well worth adding to your library." - IPMS