This volume investigates the evolution and operational history of the Canadian naval fleet from its inception in 1910 through 1985. The author, a recognized authority on Canadian maritime history, compiles an extensive record of vessel specifications, service records, and photographic documentation to provide a comprehensive reference for naval historians and enthusiasts. The work utilizes a chronological and categorical framework to track the development of the Royal Canadian Navy across two world wars and the subsequent Cold War era.

This text serves as a foundational reference for researchers and maritime historians interested in the technical and operational specifics of the Canadian naval force. Its systematic approach and reliance on archival documentation establish it as a standard resource for understanding the development of Canada's maritime capabilities.