Rethinking maritime power theory

Abstract

Abstract In light of the end to the cold war a new look at the concepts surrounding maritime power and those countries that use it is required. The refocusing of naval theory so as to include most of the international community is the driving force behind the creation of an input/output model of maritime power. Naval power is structured around a simple input‐output flow diagram. The inputs are broken into three major areas: physical, economic, and political. The discussion on each input is related to the widest possible international audience. In turning to the output, it is established that there are two elements to be addressed, the physical output (ships and naval equipment) and the written directives (missions) that govern naval activity. The concept of written mission statements is treated in detail as it is here where much traditional cold war bias is evident. Missions are established and reviewed with all nautically oriented countries in mind. In fact all maritime states should address all naval missions irrespective of military hardware. The discussion concerning hardware is limited to establishing a power hierarchy that can be used to structure the international maritime community. In conclusion it is evident that existing maritime power theory is biased toward the now defunct cold war and its participants. It is in need of a rethink. The international situation has changed radically and so too have the circumstances surrounding the utility of maritime power.