1st Edition
Continental Powers and Naval Development Strategy Coherence, Threat Diffusion, and Success at Sea
1. Introduction 2. On Continental Great-Power Naval Development 3. A Brilliant Second: France’s Experience with Naval Development 4. Too Large to Die Gloriously: Germany’s Experience with Naval Development 5. An Artificial Imposition: Imperial Russia’s Experience with Naval Development 6. Luxuries Should Not Be Permitted: The Soviet Union’s Experience with Naval Development 7. A New, Historic Mission: China’s Experience with Naval Development 8. Conclusion
Biography
Brian C. Chao is an assistant professor in the National Security Affairs Department at the US Naval War College and a non-resident associate of the Center for the Study of Contemporary China at the University of Pennsylvania.
'This is a much-needed study of how continental great powers develop naval capabilities, becoming hybrid potentates, seeking to sway influence both on land and sea. The author sheds light also on modern China's naval developments. A great study blending historical analysis and policy implications.'
Jakub J. Grygiel, Professor of Politics, The Catholic University of America
'Through five case studies spanning two centuries, Brian C. Chao ably demonstrates the value of strategy and prudence for an aspiring naval power. His nuanced findings are sure to stir policy and academic debates about the prospects of China’s ongoing bid for maritime greatness.'
Toshi Yoshihara, Senior Fellow, Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments
'Chao is good on China but offers little new on France, Russia or Germany. It’s certainly worth consulting in a library if you’re researching the naval developments of land powers'.
Jeremy Stocker, The Naval Review, May 2026
