This section shows the starting point from which all the worlds "Destroyers", and later R.N. "Frigates", originated.
During the late 1880's and early 1890's there was a need for a small, fast, fairly heavily armed, and "seaworthy" ship
that was able to stay on station with a "Blockading fleet", so as to drive off any attacking enemy "Torpedo Boats". 
From this was born the "Torpedo Boat Destroyer", as seen in the likes of "HMS Bat, HMS Cynthia" and their sisters.
These ships rapidly developed into the much more powerfully armed, seaworthy, and turbine engine powered ships, such as "HMS Swift" of 1907. 
Within 12 years, by the end of WW1, the capabilities of even these early classes of ship would have altered beyond all recognition.
The "V & W's", as seen in section 10 of this website, being proof if needed.
"Destroyers" had written a whole new chapter for the history of the RN, as in the seldom recorded Destroyer actions at "Jutland",
and would have brought into being a whole new breed of RN sailor,
"The Destroyer Man".   

( # ) against entry indicates New or Updated photos. - Section last updated Early February 2010.