Naval history, maritime strategy, and the role of technology

The idea that the study of history might profitably inform strategy in the present is frequently perceived to be outdated at best, and dangerously misleading at worst. This is particularly true of maritime strategy, debates over which are characterised by the strategic impact of new technologies and capabilities. As a result, when the past is discussed in relation to maritime strategy today, engagement with the history is often superficial, and couched in overtly presentist terms. It suggests that a nuanced and wide-ranging understanding of the past is still an essential grounding for those making modern strategy, but it is beholden upon naval historians to engage such audiences and to broaden the understanding of what maritime and naval history are: not just the study of admirals, seamen, ships, and battles at sea, but a more comprehensive field of study connecting the sea to other sources of national power.