Australian and New Zealand Warships, 1914-1945', traces the development of the two navies from the Great War, through to V-J Day, 15th August, 1945. The book highlights the technical aspects of the ships, including weapons carried and any special design or performance features. As the story of these ships is inseparable from that of the navies, brief chronologies of the major events precede the main sections. Part one describes the RAN during the Great War of 1914 1918, the years of peace 1919-1939, and the Second World War 1939-1945. The New Zealand Section, part two, lists in turn, vessels operated by the Government from 1914-1921, the New Zealand Division of the Royal Navy 1921-1941 and the RNZN from 1941 to 1945. Every ship listed is classified by type, e.g. cruiser, patrol craft, support, etc., and then sub-divided as either built-for-the-purpose or requisitioned. During 1914-18 Australia's Navy operated a total of 63 ships, of which 22 were requisitioned from private sources. The number of vessels reduced significantly during the mid-war period, only to swell again in the Second World War. Many privately owned craft were taken up for war service and by August, 1945. the number had reached 679. In comparison the 209 ships specifically acquired between 1939 and 1945 for fleet operations included ships on loan, e.g. N class destroyers, and those ordered prior to the outbreak of war but completed during the conflict, e.g. PARRAMATTA, WARREGO and KOALA.
This copy is in Very Good condition. There is some minor coloring of the pages. There is some minor shelf wear. As always, the photos are of the book you will receive.