Based in part on the U.S. Naval Institute's monthly Proceedings, this substantial reference--both in size (9.25x12.25") and scope--provides up-to-date and comprehensive information on the ships, submarines, and aircraft of the U.S. Navy. Polmar, a longtime consultant to the Navy and member of the Secretary of the Navy's research advisory committee, begins with chapters on the state of the fleet--including current policy goals and trends; ship classifications; defense, navy and fleet organization; Marine forces; Military Sealift Command; and naval personnel. The remainder consists of a detailed survey of the Navy's ships and aircraft, with many b&w photos of each. New to the 18th edition are chapters on littoral combat ships and unmanned aerial vehicles. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)