The Royal and Russian Navies: Cooperation, Competition and Confrontation - Paperback

by David Fields (Author), Robert Avery (Author)

Before the political rupture between Russia and the West--triggered by Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the invasion of Ukraine in 2022--the Royal Navy and the Russian Navy engaged in a complex programme of military cooperation. From 1988, the Royal Navy first collaborated with the Soviet Navy, then the Russian Federation Navy, culminating in a 1998 Memorandum of Understanding on naval cooperation. This book explores that unique period, examining how both navies operated and the lessons Russia drew about maritime power in advancing its global interests. With the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and growing tensions between Russia and the Euro-Atlantic community, the maritime domain remains a critical arena for defence, deterrence, and potential military dialogue. The lessons from this era of cooperation offer valuable insights for navigating an uncertain future.

Back Jacket

This book offers a definitive history of cooperation between the Royal Navy and Russian Navy from 1988 to 2014. The Royal and Russian Navies have a long history, dating from the founding of the Russian Navy by Peter the Great in 1696. During the Cold War, the Royal Navy and Soviet Navy interacted in a manner that, despite being adversaries, formed bonds against a 'common enemy' - the sea. This established military cooperation between the UK and Russia. Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 ended this cooperation, reflecting the political rupture between Russia and the West. This was exacerbated further by Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
In the present political climate, the 25-year history of cooperation between the two navies has largely been forgotten. This book draws upon the authors' and others' lived experiences to provide an illuminating account of that period, and a unique insight to the Russian Navy. In doing so, it provides important lessons about how the Russian Navy thinks, behaves and operates and improves our understanding of Russians.
Although the book recommends a pathway back to military dialogue with Russia, it is also clear-eyed about the threat Russia poses. Moscow has an ambitious maritime strategy. Its navy is one against which the Royal Navy and other allied navies will, for the foreseeable future, compete and confront. This book is essential reading for all those wanting to understand Russia better. It enhances understanding of the threat the Russian Navy will continue to pose.

Author Biography

Captain David Fields, Royal Navy (Retd)

Mr Robert Avery OBE, Principal Burnham Lecturer, Defence Centre for Languages & Culture