A naval division is a sub-division of a squadron or flotilla of a navy. It can also be a sub-division of a fleet. A division is the smallest naval formation, most commonly numbering between two and four ships.
Command element[edit]
A division is usually commanded by senior flag officer, most commonly a vice admiral or rear admiral, irrespective of the division's size. For example, in the Imperial Japanese Navy, the First Carrier Division was commanded by a rear or vice admiral, same as the 18th Cruiser Division.
Division types[edit]
Divisions are most commonly grouped by ship class and type, dependent on how the respective nation's navy is organised. Examples of division types include:
Submarine Division | 24th Submarine Division (Soviet Navy and Russian Navy) | six submarines |
Minesweeper Division | Mine Division 71 (United States Navy) | two minesweepers |
Sloop Division | 2nd Escort Group (Royal Navy) | six sloops |
Destroyer Division | Destroyer Division 22 (United States Navy) | four destroyers |
Cruiser Division | 18th Cruiser Division (Imperial Japanese Navy) | two light cruisers |
Battleship Division | Battleship Division 2 (United States Navy) | four battleships |
Carrier Division | Second Carrier Division (Imperial Japanese Navy) | two aircraft carriers |
Investigative Services | Naval Criminal Investigation Services (United States Navy) | three battleships |
See also[edit]
References[edit]
- Peattie, Mark R. (1999). Sunburst: The Rise of Japanese Naval Air Power 1909–1941. Annapolis, Maryland: Naval Institute Press. ISBN 1-59114-664-X.
- Morison, Samuel E. (1963). The Two-Ocean War: A Short History of the United States Navy in the Second World War. New York City: Little, Brown and Company. ISBN 0-316-5835-2-9.