ABSTRACT
Naval strategy in narrow seas has much in common with that required on the open ocean, but there are also considerable differences because of the much smaller size of typical narrow seas and their proximity to the continental landmass; hence, their greater effect on other sources of national strength and in the employment of fleet forces and aviation of both sides both in peacetime and in war. Space is an essential factor for the successful employment of the forces of both sides in a conflict. The higher the level of war, the more important this factor is. In general, the factor of space requires proper consideration of many elements, such as the country's maritime position and its shape, the sea area, its distances, shape and configuration; the physical characteristics of the coastline and the coastal area in general, and its hydrography/oceanography. These factors are far more critical in narrow seas than they are for a fleet employed on the open ocean.
