British Warship Losses in the Modern Era: 1920 - 1982

This important new reference work details all those ships and vessels of the Royal Navy, large and small, which were lost by accident or enemy action, during the twentieth century, from the end of the First World War to the last years of the century. In all, the fates of over 2,000 ships and small craft are covered, from aircraft carriers and battleships to motor launches, harbor tenders, and tugs. During wartime, ships are lost; it is their purpose to go in harm's way. Hostile gunfire, torpedoes, and mines were established threats throughout the period, while the increasing threat of air attack and the introduction of weapons employing new technology, such as influence-triggered mines, homing torpedoes, or air-launched guided weapons, added to the risks of operating in a hostile environment. Ships operating in extremely hazardous conditions, such as at Dunkirk in 1940 or Singapore in 1942, suffered heavy losses in brief, concentrated conflicts; but the long continuous campaigns, such as the Atlantic convoys or the constant need to sweep for mines, also took their toll.

Format: Hardback
Length: 424 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

This extensive and comprehensive new reference work provides detailed information on all the Royal Navy ships and vessels that were lost accidentally or as a result of enemy action during the twentieth century, spanning from the end of the First World War to the final years of the century. In total, the book covers the fates of over 2,000 ships and small craft, including aircraft carriers, battleships, motor launches, harbor tenders, and tugs. It also includes vessels that were hired or purchased for wartime service, such as trawlers, paddle steamers, and yachts.

During wartime, ships are inevitably lost, as their primary mission is to operate in harm's way. Throughout the period, hostile gunfire, torpedoes, and mines posed significant threats, while the increasing threat of air attack and the introduction of advanced technology, such as influence-triggered mines, homing torpedoes, or air-launched guided weapons, further heightened the risks of operating in a hostile environment. Ships that faced extremely hazardous conditions, such as Dunkirk in 1940 or Singapore in 1942, suffered heavy losses during brief but intense conflicts. However, long and continuous campaigns, such as the Atlantic convoys or the constant need to sweep for mines, also took a toll on these vessels.

Peacetime losses are primarily dominated by submarine casualties, highlighting the dangerous nature of that service. Additionally, the hazardous nature of the sea itself, particularly during heavy weather, can contribute to ship losses. Human error or plain foolishness may also play a role in these incidents. While the book focuses primarily on the losses experienced during the Second World War, it also includes peacetime losses and more recent conflicts, such as the Falklands War of 1982. The entries are arranged chronologically, with each entry providing detailed information on the vessel, including its outline details, the name of the Commanding Officer (when known), and a comprehensive and often harrowing account of its fate.

This comprehensive reference work serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of the Royal Navy and the ships and vessels that have contributed to its illustrious legacy. It sheds light on the challenges and risks faced by these vessels throughout the twentieth century and provides a detailed account of the sacrifices made by the sailors and officers who served on them.

Dimension: 246 x 172 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399097666