Advances in submarine warfare and air/sea tactics cost the Royal Navy dear in the early Atlantic, Mediterranean and Pacific campaigns, but the traditional professionalism of the pre-war regulars and the willingness of the Reserves and "hostilities only" recruits combined to win the battles of the Atlantic and Mediterranean. The navy went on to play a vital part in the sea-borne invasions to liberate Europe, and by 1945 was once more making a serious contribution to the war against Japan. This work comprehensively covers the full range of Royal Navy uniforms during World War II in colour. It explains the organization, duties and shipboard life of the wartime ships' companies, and traces the development of the Royal Navy from 1939 to the end of the war.