Ottoman Navy

The Ottoman Navy was a key maritime force of the Ottoman Empire from the 14th century until its dissolution in the early 20th century. It played a vital role in naval warfare, trade protection, and the empire's expansion across the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, and beyond. Notable for its shipbuilding innovations, the navy initially relied on oared galleys and later adopted a more diverse fleet including sailing ships. The Ottomans achieved significant naval victories, particularly during the 16th century under Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, but eventually faced challenges from rival powers, leading to its decline.