binnacle

A History of the Ship’s Compass

Mechanical gyroscopes are beginning to be replaced by ring-laser or hemispherical-resonator ones, but most ships retain a traditional magnetic compass as a backup—just in case.

By Philip K. Allan
November 2022
Kearsarge

The Double Turret

When the United States began building battleships in about 1890, it adopted—uniquely among the world’s battleship navies—two-story turrets for some them.

Norman Friedman
September 2022
Ordnancemen on board the USS San Jacinto (CVL-30)

Evolution of a Ship-Sinker

The Mk 13 torpedo emerged as a devastating weapon responsible for sinking a Japanese superbattleship at the Battle of Leyte Gulf and another one off Okinawa.

Norman Friedman
August 2022
Ships

How the Propeller Displaced the Paddle Wheel

The development of steam power in the 18th century was arguably one of the most important changes of its age. Shipbuilding, too, was part of this revolution.

By Philip K. Allan
May 2022
Mk 3 Whitehead torpedo

Pioneering Torpedoman

The development of the torpedo was long and tortuous, but a tangential musical connection would bring enjoyment around the globe.

March 2022
Rigging

The Evolution of Sails in 18th-Century Warships

Prior to the introduction of steam power, warships were dependent on the wind and their sails to provide both power and the ability to maneuver in battle.

Philip K. Allan, author, Upon the Malabar Coast
January 2022
Shipmast

Command and Control in the Age of Sail

As the sun rose on 21 October 1805, the most famous naval battle of the Age of Sail was about to begin off the southwest coast of Spain.

Philip K. Allan, author, Upon the Malabar Coast
September 2021
Anchor

Anchors Aweigh

A look at the history and evolution of anchors.

Philip K. Allan, author, Sea of Wolves
May 2021