The first of two upcoming releases, Osprey Publishing announces the latest in their New Vanguard series. American Light and Medium Frigates 1794–1836 tells the story of the ‘Original Six’ frigates which were commissioned by the new US Navy. Built for the staggering cost of nearly $700,000, theses ships were designed to be light and fast and enabled America to project its power across the globe. Included in this list of ships is the USS Constellation, the first ship to be commissioned by the United States Navy. Due out in August, this book will retail for $17.95.

Author Mark Lardas takes the reader on a journey back in time with the design and development of these frigates, explaining the shortcomings that led to their replacement by larger, heavier 44-gun models by 1800. Artists Tony Bryan and Giuseppe Rava provide illustrations of US frigates and their British and French rivals. This book follows the escalation of the naval ‘arms race’ during the 18th century alongside stirring accounts of engagements during the Barbary Wars.

Contents

Introduction

Design and Development

Operational History

The Ships

Color Plate Commentary

Index