The Royal Navy
The defensive strategy of the British government was multi-layered, but it depended heavily on the strength of the Royal Navy.
The Navy was the first line of defence, with the Channel and Mediterranean Fleets watching the main French ports of Brest and Toulon.
The security of the English Channel was critical. One fleet patrolled the French coast. Another squadron was stationed off the Downs, ready to act in the event of an attack; and a third was placed nearer to the English coast to destroy any vessels that did get through these defences.
The Navy was also Britain's most effcient fighting force. It was a highly complex organization, led by the Admiralty and supported by the Navy Board and several subsidiary Boards. Between them, they ensured that ships were well maintained, using the network of dockyards. They also saw that ships had suffcient weapons, men, food and medical supplies. Healthy, well-fed and well-disciplined crews were vital.
Preparations >>