Royal Navy – Iraqi oil smugglers try a new tactic to get around the naval blockade – the use of dhows.

• Associated Press: Iraqi Oil Smugglers Turn to Wooden Boats
• Reuters: British Navy plays cat and mouse with Iraqi smugglers

Canadian Navy – Canada is extending its deployments to the Gulf as well.

• Times Colonist: HMCS Winnipeg faces two more months at sea

Canadian Navy – Aboard HMCS Montreal in the Gulf.

• Toronto Star: Boredom biggest enemy aboard frigate

US Navy – Aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, her crew is ready for war.

• Daily Telegraph: We’re raring to do some damage, says US carrier crew

US Navy – There are a number of naval choke points affecting Persian Gulf bound ships.

• Virginian Pilot: On Edge in the Suez: Along shortcut, Navy ships keep guard
• Virginian Pilot: On Edge in the Suez, Part 2
• Virginian Pilot: Choke points are concern for Persian Gulf-bound ships

Background – Iraq – An interview with the new British Chief of the General Staff, that includes a discussion on Iraq.

• Daily Telegraph: ‘War is the easy part’