A Tale of Two Navies: Geopolitics, Technology, and Strategy in the United States Navy and the Royal Navy, 1960-2015

by Anthony Wells

A Tale of Two Navies is an analysis of the unique relationship between the United States Navy and the Royal Navy from 1960 to present. This loosely chronological study examines the histories, strategies, operations, technology, and intelligence activities of both navies. The special intelligence relationship is highlighted by unique knowledge and insights into the workings of U.S. and British intelligence. Bringing his extensive experience in both navies to bear, Anthony Wells provides a revealing look at the importance of naval thinking -- how it impacts not only every level of naval activity, but also national defense as a whole. A Tale of Two Navies probes selective key themes and offers a discourse between the author and readers. Throughout, Wells challenges his reader to consider how the U.S. and the U.K. can best collaborate to advance their common strategic interests. This insightful look at the "special relationship" is especially relevant given emerging and increasing threats from China, Russia, and radical Islamist terror organizations.

264 pages, Hardcover

Published January 15, 2017

Reviews

[Sven · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book is largely as described in the blurb, a loosely chronological collection of essays investigating aspects of the US and UK navies (e.g. organization, technology, strategy), or particular conflicts (e.g. Falklands, Desert Storm, Six-Day War).

Much of the analysis is interesting, although less so the post-9/11 chapters - his prognostications have not aged well there, for the most part. He also veers off his core topic to propose solutions to broader international conflicts, such as the Israel-Palestine dilemma and the circa 2015 ISIS issue. I don't think either of those can be solved by the USN or Royal Navy...

However, I found his post-WW II and Cold War analysis interesting and enlightening.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall a good collection of side-by-side history and common operations post-WWII with the USN and the RN....some content errors (like placing Iranian forces fighting against the Coalition in Iraq during the 1991 Gulf War...twice).