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A naval division is a subdivision of a squadron or flotilla. It can also be a sub-division of a fleet. A division is the smallest naval formation, most commonly numbering between 2 to 4 ships.

The four Iowa-class ships operating as Battleship Division 2 off the Virginia Capes in 1954; from front to back is Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri and New Jersey

Command Element

A division is usually commanded by senior flag officer, most commonly a vice admiral or rear admiral, irrespective of the division's size. For example, in the Imperial Japanese Navy the First Carrier Division was commanded by a rear or vice admiral, same as the 18th Cruiser Division.

Division Types

Divisions are most commonly grouped by ship class and type, dependent on how the respective nation's navy is organised. Examples of division types include:

• Submarine Division - 24th Submarine Division (Russian Navy) - 6 submarines
• Minesweeper Division - Mine Division 71 (United States Navy) - 2 minesweepers
• Sloop Division - 2nd Escort Group (Royal Navy) - 6 Sloops
• Destroyer Division - Destroyer Division 22 (United States Navy) - 4 destroyers
• Cruiser Division - 18th Cruiser Division (Imperial Japanese Navy) - 2 light cruisers
• Battleship Division - Battleship Division 2 (United States Navy) - 4 battleships
• Carrier Division - Second Carrier Division (Imperial Japanese Navy) - 2 aircraft carriers

References

• Peattie, Mark R. (1999). Sunburst: The Rise of Japanese Naval Air Power 1909-1941. Annapolis, Maryland: Naval Institute Press. ISBN 1-59114-664-X.
• Morison, Samuel E. (1963) The Two-Ocean War: A Short History of the United States Navy in the Second World War. New York City: Little, Brown and Company. ISBN 0-316-5835-2-9

See also

• BatDiv
• Destroyer squadron

Category:Naval units and formations by size