Introduction: the maritime air threat and the defensive missile /The County-class destroyers /The Type 82 destroyer: HMS Bristol /The Type 42: Sheffield-class destroyers /The Type 45: Daring-class destroyers /Operational Service /Conclusion /Bibliography /Index

In the years after World War II, new guided missile technology offered surface ships the chance to destroy airborne threats from afar, thereby preserving their role in naval warfare. This book examines the technology and combat performance of Britain's guided missile destroyers over half a century.
Uniquely among modern destroyers, three of these classes have been tested in battle against the aircraft and missiles of another modern navy - in the Falklands War - as well as being deployed during the Gulf War. Written by an expert on British naval technology, this book assess the changing technology of the Royal Navy's destroyers over half a century, including an examination of the Royal Navy's newest and most capable warship, the Type 45.

Edward Hampshire, illustrated by Paul Wright