The period of relative peace enjoyed by the Roman Empire in its first two centuries ended with the Marcomannic Wars. The following centuries saw near-constant warfare, which brought new challenges for the Roman Navy. It was now not just patrolling the Mediterranean but also fighting against invaders with real naval skill, such as Genseric and his Vandals.

With research from newly discovered shipwrecks and archaeological finds as well as the rich contemporary source material, this study examines the equipment and tactics used by the navy and the battles they fought in this tumultuous period, which includes the fall of Rome and the resurgence of the Eastern Empire under Justinian the Great.

Using spectacular illustrations, carefully researched ship profiles, and maps, this third volume in Osprey's Roman Warships miniseries charts the ultimate evolution of the Roman fleet in one of the most fascinating periods of its history.

Dr. Raffaele D'Amato is a researcher of the ancient military worlds. After achieving a Ph.D. in Romano-Byzantine Law and collaborating with the University of Athens, he gained a second doctorate in Roman military archaeology. He is a visiting professor for the Turkish Government Research Institution at the Fatih University.

Giuseppe Rava was born in Faenza in 1963. Self-taught, Giuseppe has established himself as a leading military history artist. He lives and works in Italy. www.g-rava.it