ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Brown-water navy

So, you know how sometimes when you take a bath, the water turns all brown and dirty because of the dirt and grime on your body? Well, sometimes the water in rivers and shallow water areas can also turn brown because of all the dirt and mud and other stuff in the water.

Now, imagine a big boat or ship trying to sail in this brown, dirty water. It's not easy, is it? That's why some countries have special boats and ships called the "brown-water navy." These boats are designed to sail in shallow and dirty water areas like rivers and swamps where other big boats cannot go.

The brown-water navy boats are usually smaller and faster than other navy ships. They have shallow drafts, which means they can safely move in shallow water without getting stuck. They are also armored to protect them from enemy fire and have powerful guns to defend themselves.

These boats and ships are used for important missions such as patrolling borders, protecting ports and harbors, and helping troops move safely through difficult waterways. So, just like how you need to take a bath to clean all the dirt off your body, the brown-water navy is needed to keep waterways clean and safe and protect the country.