ABSTRACT
What role can small/smaller navies play in combined maritime operations? This chapter will look at the role small/smaller navies can play in combined maritime operations with allies and in coalitions both at the strategic and operational levels and as why states chose to participate. It will argue that at the strategic level, the participation of small navies in combined operations can turn what might be unilateral into a multilateral maritime operation, enhancing its political legitimacy. For small navies, participation in combined operations also has important strategic-level advantages. It can demonstrate support for an important ally, as well as support for international norms and values. As a result, participating in combined operations can be a force multiplier and send very clear messages to allies and potential enemies, as well as advance foreign policy goals. Participation can also demonstrate a state's commitment and willingness to deploy and use military force and can showcase a state's maritime power. In essence, a small navy's participation in combined operations can send big political messages at the strategic level. This chapter will also look at the operational-level advantages of including small navies in combined operations. It will argue that at the operational level, small navies can often provide both niche and critical maritime capabilities. In particular, small navies can augment niche capabilities such as anti-submarine warfare and plug capability gaps. Participating states can also add additional infrastructure support to combined operations enhancing sustainability and reach. Small navies also make the combined naval force more agile and flexible, offering the fleet commander a range of force configurations to best meet the operational requirements. There are also many key operational advantages for smaller navies in participating in combined operations. These include increasing interoperability with key allies, developing warfighting skills and knowledge, as well as enhancing the morale of service personnel.
