Warships

Warships are armed naval vessels designed for combat and operated by a nation’s navy. They are built to operate at sea, deliver weapons, project power, and protect sea lanes. Warships encompass a range of surface ships and submarines, distinguished by their armament, protection, and combat-oriented design rather than civilian utility.

Historically, warships evolved from sailing ships of the line in the age of sail to steam-powered ironclads, culminating in the dreadnought era of the early 20th century. The mid-20th century brought aircraft carriers to prominence, transforming naval warfare by enabling power projection far from home waters. Postwar developments emphasized guided missiles, advanced sensors, and integrated air-defense and anti-submarine capabilities, while battleships largely faded from frontline service. In the 21st century, fleets emphasize multirole surface ships, submarines, and carrier groups for deterrence, protection of sea lanes, and expeditionary operations.

Surface warships include battleships (no longer frontline vessels), aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, frigates, corvettes, and amphibious ships. Destroyers and frigates provide escort, anti-air, anti-submarine, and surface warfare capabilities; cruisers typically emphasize air defense and long-range strike; frigates and corvettes handle patrol, escort, and tactical missions. Submarines—attack boats, ballistic-missile submarines, and cruise-missile submarines—serve deterrence, stealth, and strike roles beneath the sea.

Modern warships employ various propulsion systems, including nuclear and conventional steam or gas turbines. Armament typically comprises missiles (air, anti-ship, land-attack), naval guns, torpedoes, and close-in weapon systems. Active sensors such as radar and sonar, along with electronic warfare suites, enable situational awareness and command and control within multinational fleets.