This volume investigates the comprehensive evolution and operational history of the Canadian naval fleet from its inception in 1910 through 1981. Authors Ken Macpherson and John Burgess provide a systematic catalog of the vessels that defined Canada's maritime presence, utilizing archival data and photographic records to document the technical specifications and service records of these ships. The work serves as a foundational reference for understanding the growth of the Royal Canadian Navy across the twentieth century.

The subject matter points to a dense, specialist text intended for naval historians, maritime enthusiasts, and researchers of Canadian military development. The framing suggests a highly structured, data-driven resource that prioritizes technical accuracy and historical documentation over narrative prose.