Ottoman naval power

The Ottoman Empire had a powerful navy that played a crucial role in its expansion and control over trade routes from the 15th to the 17th centuries. The fleet, based in the Mediterranean, ensured dominance against rival powers like Venice and Spain. It facilitated trade, military campaigns, and the protection of Ottoman interests. Notable naval commanders, like Hayreddin Barbarossa, helped secure victories and expand influence. However, as European naval technology advanced, the Ottoman fleet struggled to keep pace, leading to a decline in naval power by the 18th century, impacting the empire's overall strength and reach.