Sun, Nov 1, 1998
Whether exploring the unknown wonders of the ocean depths, or finding ships that have disappeared without a trace, the submersible is one of the ultimate expressions of Mankinds curiosity and thirst for adventure. Submersibles come in a variety of extraordinary and innovative designs -- everything from bubble-shaped vehicles to robot-like contraptions with mechanical arms. In fact, they often look more like childrens toys than undersea vehicles. But they are vessels of enormous sophistication, strength and durability, built to transport human beings from the relative safety of the world of air and light into the potentially dangerous realm that lies deep beneath the surface of the ocean. Unlike their military cousins, the submarines, which are designed exclusively as warships, submersibles are geared toward research and exploration. They also require the support of larger mother ships which transport them to and from their work sites. Since the submersible was developed not as a weapon but as a tool in Mans quest for knowledge and scientific advancement, the role played by governments in funding and developing the unique vessels has been substantial. But the effort has been led by a small group of maverick designers and their craft who dared over time to pursue their own visions of undersea exploration. As we move into the future, these intrepid craft are probing ever further into an exotic watery environment whose untold mysteries could hold the key to not only to the development but perhaps even the ultimate survival of the human race.
Tue, Feb 10, 1998
Possessing speed, strength and the ability to scout far and wide, cruisers have played a key role in the worlds navies for the past two centuries. From their early missions as raiders attacking enemy merchant ships to sailing in support of the battle fleet, cruisers have shown an amazing versatility and a longevity exceeding that of almost any other type of warship. Evolving from the fast and hard-hitting frigates of the 18th Century, cruisers were initially known more for the job they did than for any particular design characteristics. They got their name from their early missions, cruising the seas to scout out enemy fleets or swooping down to attack enemy merchant men, lines of communication and other warships. It wasnt long before the cruiser came into its own as a swift and heavily armed warship. While still employed on solitary surveillance and raiding missions, it began to take on a larger role, both on the front lines of battle and as an escort vessel for larger types of warships. By the beginning of the 20th Century, the cruiser had proven instrumental in the emergence of the United States as a world naval power. From the wood and steam of the American Civil War to the missiles and microchips of the Persian Gulf, these sleek vessels have had a longer history and undergone a greater design evolution than any other type of actively serving warship. It is this unique adaptability that makes the cruiser such an important part of the U.S. battle fleet.