Continuing need for accurate positioning in naval tactics

Abstract

The need for accurate positioning in naval tactics is discussed with reference to relative and geographical positioning, large area battles, the Navy Tactical Data System and the Link systems, attack scenarios, mine warfare, Q-routes, and mine hunting and neutralizations. It is concluded that the evolution of modern naval warfare has led away from the careful and assiduous application of navigation and positioning information. The ease of obtaining a 'fix' and the imperatives of tactical threats have relegated this aspect to a lesser role. It is further argued that the trends toward over-the-horizon targeting/battles and strict emission controls, coupled with the more traditional tactics in antisubmarine warfare and mine warfare, continue to require good geographic positioning as a matter of paramount importance.<>