This book analyses the technology, administration, strategic and tactical employment of the Egyptian New Kingdom navy. The work draws on the author’s military experience, coupled with practical experimental watercraft studies, and offers a unique perspective on aspects of the New Kingdom navy. While other works address naval operations, the emphasis on infrastructure and administration in this book is less commonly explored. The book offers a detailed analysis of textual, pictorial, and archaeological evidence on the study of ancient Egypt and Egyptian military history. By examining the evidence anew, it casts fresh light on established theories.

The book’s innovative typology of naval vessels and use of experimental archaeology advance the understanding of maritime infrastructure, making it a valuable addition to the field of Egyptology.

AUTHOR

Michael Allen Stephens has published categorisations and journal articles examining Egyptian watercraft of the Old, Middle and New Kingdoms, including the three previous BAR titles S2358, S3084, and S3182. His knowledge of watercraft is informed by his academic studies, as well as personal experience in sailing and boat building.

REVIEW

‘The manuscript integrates a combination of established textual and archaeological evidence with innovative experimental insights. The author's approach—particularly the practical experiments with constructing and sailing watercraft—adds a fresh and valuable dimension to the study. This hands-on methodology enhances our understanding of New Kingdom naval logistics and operations, offering practical validation and new interpretations of existing evidence.’ Professor Ibrahim Noureddine, Carleton University