Of all the world's seaborne military organizations, the British Royal Navy is perhaps the most prestigious. Protector of the British Empire and defender of British freedom, it has provided the template on which nearly all other national navies have modelled themselves. This book explores the changes in the uniforms of the Royal Navy from the 18th century to 1970. It includes details from the dress regulations as laid down in the first official illustrated text on the topic, which dated from 1825, up through the present day, and addresses all variations for climate, rank, and equipment requirements.

Robert Wilkinson-Latham specializes in military uniforms and weapons and has written many books covering a variety of historical periods. His previous works for Osprey include the highly acclaimed ‘Napoleon’s Artillery’.