This book analyzes the variety of weaponry used by both sides during this conflict as well as the differences in ship design that helped to play a role in the outcome. It also looks at the leadership and training of the crews on both sides of the war. It is probably this aspect as much as any that determined the outcome. Author Robert Forczyk does a superlative job of telling this story and all the aspects of the battles. This is all further enhanced by quality period photographs as well as superb illustrations and little vignettes from the diaries of those who participated in the various events of the times. In all, an excellent addition to what has become a popular series.

Scott Van Aken, modelingmadness.com (February 2009)

Forczyk not only provides a detailed narrative of the naval battles and how the Japanese bested the Russians (overwhelmingly so in the Battle of Tsushima), but he also includes an in-depth analysis of the competing battleship designs and ideas (including gun, communication, and armor development). For example, he looks at the British and French designs for battleship design (these two countries were the leaders in design at the time) and how those designs influenced the outcome of the war...For anyone interested in the late 1800s and early 1900s international battleship development race, this book is an excellent resource.

Jeff Grim, www.collectedmiscellany.com (May 2009)