Page 128 - NAVAL SCIENCE 3 TEXTBOOK

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Ship Construction and

Damage Control

av)' ships arc complicated. They have propulsion plants. weapons, store-
N rooms, repair shops, offices, and operating spaces. They provide for their
crew's living, sleeping, and eating needs. The)' are almost like cities with their
lighting, sanitary, cOIl1J1lllIlicalions, mail delivery, water, and power systems.
Large ships have libraries. dental and medical offices. legal services, newspapers,
TV stations, chapels, and recreation spaces. All must be able to operate on their
own tor long periods of time.
Unlike commercial ships, naval ships must be capable of continuing their
missions even if they are damaged either ill battle or as a result of operations.
Because of this, Nav)' ships have a damage control organization to deal with
whatever damage may occur while keeping the ship in optimulll operating COI1-
dition. The following chapters will discuss the principles and nomenclature of
naval ship construction and the damage control capabilities of naval ships.