Naval War College

The Naval War College is an educational center for naval officers in Newport, Rhode Island, situated on Coasters Harbor Island in Narragansett Bay. The campus includes lecture halls, an extensive specialized library, simulation rooms for tactical exercises, and residential facilities for students from around the world.

The institution was founded in 1884 under the leadership of Admiral Stephen B. Luce to teach officers maritime strategy. In the following decades, the curriculum expanded to include international security issues and modern warfare technologies, making the center a globally recognized training facility.

The name reflects the institution's close ties to the United States Navy and underscores the central role of military education in the region. Officers from different countries work together on joint projects and develop an international network within the maritime community.

The facility sits on a small island reached by a bridge from the mainland, with visitor access restricted to certain areas. The Henry E. Eccles Library is available to researchers by appointment and offers access to historical documents and current publications.

Alfred Thayer Mahan developed his influential theories on sea power here in the late 19th century, shaping military thinking worldwide. The wargaming facilities use traditional board game formats alongside digital systems to simulate complex naval operations in realistic scenarios.

Location: Newport

Inception: 1884

Website: http://usnwc.edu

GPS coordinates: 41.50788,-71.33005

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:02