This is an informed prediction on the state of naval strategy and armament at the outset of the 21st century. Irrespective of the effects of glasnost and hostilities which may occur in the interim, it can already be assessed what naval vessels and equipment will be deployed, in production or on the drawing board at the turn of the century. Formerly such forecasting was the sole territory of the defence industry and politicians but now, in a quartet of books designed for the layman, the enthusiast, wanting to more accurately follow the continuing advances in his subject, will have the necessary guide to assist his study.