THE ROYAL NAVY BETWEEN WORLD WARS
The Royal Navy between the First and Second World Wars had an eventful period, as with any large navy between wars. The Royal Navy was faced with a range of new technology, such as aircraft carriers, which had to be incorporated into their operations. Alongside this they also needed to modernise their existing ships to ensure that they remained at the cutting edge of naval power. In addition, the Royal Navy also sought to expand its influence around the globe through various operations and exercises with other navies.
One of the most significant events for the Royal Navy between wars was in 1921 when it signed the Washington Naval Treaty. This treaty limited Britain's tonnage of warships relative to those of other powers. It also established a number of zones in which Britain was not permitted to build and maintain naval bases. This treaty created a lasting impression on the Royal Navy and was an important part of their between wars operations as it affected where they could operate and how large their ships could be.
The Royal Navy also played a major role in World War One, providing vital support for the British war effort by defending merchant shipping from German U-boats, providing escorts for troopships, and carrying out patrols in the North Sea. The Royal Navy's actions during this conflict resulted in the capture or sinking of numerous German vessels, including famous battleships such as SMS Emden.
The between wars period saw the Royal Navy continue to evolve, with technological advances being made that would eventually lead to greater successes during World War Two. These included the development of larger ships with improved armour, machinery and weaponry, as well as the introduction of aircraft carriers and submarines into the fleet. The Royal Navy also continued to develop its base network around the world, allowing it to project power in any part of the globe.
Though between wars Britain's focus shifted away from naval supremacy towards maintaining peace between nations, this did not mean that the Royal Navy was left idle - indeed, it remained an important instrument for protecting British interests in troubled waters. The Royal Navy saw action on multiple occasions between wars; ranging from defending merchant shipping against pirates off Somalia, providing escort services for convoys in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern waters, and even intervening during internal conflicts
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