The Navy as a Fighting Machine

Sharp, practical, and prescient, The Navy as a Fighting Machine by Bradley A. Fiske examines what a navy is for and how it should be built, prepared, and employed to deliver maximum value — without drowning readers in jargon. Part military science, part naval history and sea stories, this classic non-fiction work—rooted in the author's experience as a rear admiral and naval strategist—breaks down naval power into clear principles: strategy, ship design, active fleets, reserves, shore stations, bases, and the operational art of running a fighting machine. Written on the eve of the First World War, Fiske’s inductive approach traces how nations use sea power, explores preparedness and defense policy, and maps strategic considerations across the Atlantic and Pacific. Chapters originally published in leading journals are woven into a concise, accessible argument for practical, economical naval policy. Listeners will appreciate the blend of technical insight and broad strategic perspective presented in plain language. Ideal for students of naval history, military professionals, maritime enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the evolution of modern navies, this audiobook is a foundational look at naval strategy and the enduring logic of sea power.