"A" Class Destroyer (1894)
The destroyers of the "A" Class entered service between 1895 and 1896.
Originally termed the 26 Knotters and 27 Knotters, those vessels remaining were re-designated as "A" class destroyers on 30 August 1912.[1]
By May 1920, seven of the ships were still considered worth documenting as regards their armament,[2] but it appears that was also the year in which the last nine vessels were broken up.
Guns
One 12-pdr 12 cwt on a P I mounting. The gun recoiled 12 inches and the mounting and its sights were capable of 30 degree elevations (9500 yards).[2]
Originally, the 26 knotters three and the 27 knotters five 6-pdr guns (though the 26 knotters could mount five by landing the torpedo tubes).[3] It appears these were removed by late in the war.[2]
By 1920, those remaining had also been fitted with a Q.F. 6-pdr on Mark IV H.A. mounting.[2]
Torpedoes
Most had two single 18-in torpedo tubes, particularly by the war. Some had a third fixed bow tube which was removed from most although some boat retained only this tube. [3]
From 1907, the decision was made to standardise the "A" through "D"s with torpedoes set for short range, allotting them the Mark IV S.R..[4]
Other Weapons
Searchlights
Fire Control
Visual fire control system.[2]
Torpedo Control
See Also
Footnotes
Bibliography
- Template:BibConways1860-1905
- Template:BibLyonFirstDestroyers
- March, Edgar J. (1966). British Destroyers: A History of Development, 1892-1953. London: Seeley Service & Co. Limited. (on Bookfinder.com).
- Template:BibUKTHVol4Part34