During whose caliphate was the naval fleet established for the first time?

Explanation

Hazrat Usman (R.A) was the first caliph to establish a Muslim naval fleet, recognizing the strategic importance of maritime power for the expanding Islamic state. This initiative was undertaken on the advice of Muawiya (R.A), the governor of Syria, who understood the threat posed by the Byzantine navy in the Mediterranean. The establishment of the naval fleet led to significant victories, most notably the Battle of Dhat al-Sawari (Battle of the Masts) in 655 CE, where the Muslim navy defeated the Byzantine fleet.

Good to know

During the caliphate of Hazrat Umar (R.A), Muawiya (R.A) had requested permission to build a navy, but Hazrat Umar (R.A) refused due to concerns about the safety of Muslim soldiers at sea. When Hazrat Usman (R.A) became caliph, he granted this permission, leading to the creation of the first Islamic naval fleet. The Muslims used this fleet to conquer Cyprus in 649 CE and later achieved the historic naval victory at the Battle of Dhat al-Sawari against the Byzantines.

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