Naval bombardment refers to the military tactic of conducting large-scale attacks or assaults by naval forces against enemy targets located along coastlines or on islands. This technique involves deploying warships, equipped with heavy artillery cannons and sometimes missiles, to shell and bombard the intended objectives.
The purpose of naval bombardment is primarily to inflict significant damage to enemy defenses, positions, or infrastructure located near or along the shoreline. It can be used to support ground forces during amphibious operations, such as beach landings, by neutralizing enemy fortifications and strategic points as they approach the enemy-held territory. Additionally, naval bombardment can disrupt enemy supply lines or communication networks, thus hampering their ability to mobilize and coordinate defenses effectively.
Naval bombardments can be categorized into two main types: direct-fire and indirect-fire. Direct-fire usually involves firing artillery guns at visible targets, while indirect-fire entails the use of advanced targeting systems, such as radar or satellite-guided munitions, to strike the objectives with precision, even if they are out of sight. This tactic ensures a more accurate and effective assault.
Naval bombardment has been a prominent strategy employed in numerous conflicts throughout history, such as World War I and II, the Korean War, and various other naval engagements. Over time, improvements in naval technology, including the development of long-range guided missiles, have significantly enhanced the efficacy and destructive power of naval bombardment, making it a formidable force on the battlefield.
The word "naval" derives from the Latin word "navalis", which means "pertaining to ships". It is derived from the Latin word "navis", meaning "ship".
The term "bombardment" has a similar origin. It is derived from the Middle French word "bombarder" and the Old French word "bombarder", which means "to attack with a bomb".
Therefore, the etymology of "naval bombardment" refers to the act of attacking with bombs from ships.