Overview
Naval fleet refers to a large, generally permanent naval formation. Fleets are often assigned to a specific ocean or sea and are frequently named for the body of water in which they operate. In some navies, fleets are identified by number; for example, since 1942 the United States Navy has used numerical designations for its fleets.
Command and rank
A fleet is normally commanded by a senior flag officer. The title and rank of that officer vary between countries and eras; historically an officer might hold the rank of Admiral of the Fleet, while other fleets have been led by Vice-Admirals or Rear-Admirals. The term Admiral denotes a high-ranking naval officer who typically exercises overall control of the fleet.
Organization
Fleets are subdivided to manage large numbers of ships and personnel. The usual hierarchy is:
- Fleet
- Squadrons, each under a subordinate admiral
- Divisions within squadrons
- Individual ships
In the age of sail, fleets were commonly arranged into three principal squadrons — van, centre and rear — named for their positions in the line of battle. In modern navies, squadrons are often formed from groups of similarly equipped warships. Typical examples include squadrons made up of frigates or destroyers.
Usage of the term
In many smaller maritime forces a nation may operate only a single fleet. In such cases, the expression the fleet is commonly used as a synonym for the nation's entire navy.