ABSTRACT
This chapter examines some of the ways by which the naval instrument might affect the short- or long-term character of a country's foreign policy. Warships can be important influences on a country's foreign policy. The military threat which a country faces is the consideration which basically structures the whole of its foreign policy, determining alliances and postures, strategies and tactics. In addition to any political disadvantages, bases may also entail some military disadvantages. In an anti-colonial era they are almost certain to be a provocation to local nationalists. Furthermore, any vulnerabilities or exposures may be used by adversaries as a point of pressure for bargaining purposes. Militarily weak countries with important possessions appreciate that the source of their power is also the cause of their vulnerability. Valuable possessions transform them into potential military targets. Naval threats are not merely a small versus great power phenomenon. The world is full of local conflicts, many of which have an active military component.
