Italian Destroyers of World War II

Book excerpt: The Italian Regia Marina began World War II with one of the largest fleets in the world. Its 59 fleet destroyers were a diverse collection of ships, including large destroyers built to counter their new rivals in the French Navy, and a range of medium destroyers, some of which dated back to World War I. Designed for the Mediterranean theater, Italy's destroyers were built for high speed rather than endurance. These ships fought the crucial convoy war for the central Mediterranean, protecting the Italian supply lines to North Africa while attacking the Allies' Malta convoys. They also sortied in their dozens with Italy's battle fleet, and fought in every major battle in the Mediterranean. In addition, a small, isolated destroyer force in Abyssinia fought a series of audacious, little-known Red Sea battles until all were scuttled or sunk. Packed with rare photos and new artwork, this book is a concisely detailed guide to Italy's destroyers and their hard-fought war, in which 51 ships were lost. Book jacket.