This is a book which will appeal equally to naval enthusiasts and ship modellers. It offers an overview of the design, development and classification of modern warship types and it studies the constructors' original models, explaining why and how they were made. The reader is shown how to research and select information on specific ships and how to find and understand plans. The book then turns to scale modelling with detailed chapters on choosing a subject, a scale, methods of construction (scratch or kit?), materials and techniques and the details of fittings and painting. The book leaves the reader with a deeper insight into the direct relationship between the full sized vessel and the realistic scale model or working model. The book is Illustrated by over 100 of the authors' fine quality photographs, many of which have never been published before.