The life and times of a famous admiral who helped to bring the Cold War to a close, told through his diaries and interviews with over one hundred politicians, senior and junior officers and colleagues who knew him well. Peter Hore’s biography of Admiral Sir Jock Slater illuminates pivotal moments in the evolution of British naval and air power during the late twentieth century. Reveals what made Slater one the most successful and longest serving admirals of the Cold War era Touches on Slater’s relations with the Royal family Discloses previously unknown episodes in the making of British defence and naval policy Uses as primary sources the memories of those who took part in events, such as the making nuclear policy, the decision to send women to sea, the end of the gay ban, UK-Russia relations and the establishment of British Maritime Doctrine. This book will appeal to anyone interested in naval history. "Peter Hore’s biography of Jock Slater throws a bright light on critical developments of British naval and naval air power in the late 20th century." Professor Nicholas Rodger"Jock was an outstanding First Sea Lord, by far the best holder of the post in the past 25 years, and should have been Chief of Defence Staff." Sir Max Hastings"...This is a masterly slice of contemporary naval history." Professor Richard Harding"...Using a range of personal, unofficial, and private sources, Peter Hore has written a vivid account of Admiral Sir Jock Slater's life that blossoms further into a synthesis of British naval and defence policy at the end of the Cold War." John B.Hattendorf, Editor-in-Chief, Oxford Encyclopaedia of Maritime History