The Athenian Navy was a powerful maritime force in ancient Greece, primarily during the 5th century BCE. It played a crucial role in the Peloponnesian War and was instrumental in establishing Athens as a dominant naval power. The navy was composed mainly of triremes, fast and agile warships that allowed for effective naval combat and trade protection. The Athenian Navy was funded through the Delian League, a coalition of city-states led by Athens. This financial support enabled the construction and maintenance of a large fleet, which helped secure victories in battles such as the Battle of Salamis. The navy not only defended Athenian interests but also facilitated the expansion of its empire.