Naval Fleet: Large formation of warships within a navy
A naval fleet is usually a permanent formation and is generally assigned to a particular ocean or sea.
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Many fleets are named after the particular ocean or sea to which they are assigned. Since 1942, the US Navy uses numbers to identify its fleets.
A fleet is normally commanded by an admiral. Usually, his rank is Admiral of the Fleet. Some fleets have been or are commanded by Vice-Admirals or even Rear-Admirals. Most fleets are divided into several squadrons, each of which is commanded by a subordinate admiral. Those squadrons in turn are often divided into divisions.
During the age of sail, fleets were divided into van, centre and rear squadrons. They were named after each squadron’s place in the line of battle. In more modern times, the squadrons are typically composed of groups of the same class of warships. Examples would be frigates or destroyers.
Since many smaller navies contain only one fleet, the term the fleet usually means the navy.
References
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