What is the main goal of naval warfare?

The primary goal of naval warfare is to control maritime trade routes and ensure naval supremacy. This is crucial for national security and economic stability, as maritime routes are vital for the transportation of goods, resources, and military supplies. By establishing control over these routes, a navy can disrupt an adversary's trade, protect its own commercial interests, and project power across the seas.

Naval supremacy not only ensures that a country's naval forces can operate freely without interference from adversaries but also provides a strategic advantage on the global stage. This includes deterring potential aggressors and enabling safe passage for a nation's trade and military vessels. Control of the seas has historically determined the outcomes of conflicts, as a dominant navy can significantly influence the course of warfare through blockades, amphibious assaults, and strategic naval deployments.

While enhancing diplomatic relations, developing new technology, and participating in peacekeeping missions are all important aspects of a nation's broader maritime strategy, they do not encompass the primary military objective of naval warfare, which centers on the strategic dominance and control of maritime operations.