What is a Naval Fleet?
Q: What is a Naval Fleet?
A: A Naval Fleet is a permanent formation assigned to a particular ocean or sea.
Q: How does the United States Navy identify their fleets?
A: The United States Navy uses numbers to identify their fleets since 1942.
Q: Who normally commands a fleet?
A: A fleet is normally commanded by an Admiral, whose rank is Admiral of the Fleet.
Q: Are there any fleets that are commanded by lower ranks than Admiral?
A: Yes, some fleets have been or are commanded by Vice-Admirals or even Rear-Admirals.
Q: How are most fleets divided?
A: Most fleets are divided into several squadrons, each commanded by a subordinate admiral.
Q: How were fleets divided in the age of sail?
A: In the age of sail, fleets were divided into van, centre and rear squadrons, named after each squadron's place in the line of battle.
Q: How are modern squadrons typically composed?
A: In modern times, squadrons are typically composed of groups of the same class of warships, such as frigates or destroyers.
Q: What does the term "the fleet" usually mean for smaller navies?
A: For smaller navies that only contain a single fleet, the term "the fleet" usually means the navy itself.
