Ambuscade predates the London Treaty restrictions that later shaped destroyer-leader tonnage. She was a test unit carrying six torpedoes, four 4.7-inch guns intended for surface and anti-aircraft fire, and two 40 mm anti-aircraft guns. Limited elevation made the main battery's anti-aircraft role more theoretical than practical, especially against aircraft passing close overhead. The combined battery placed torpedo attack, surface gunnery, and air defence in a hull of under 1,200 tons standard displacement. She spent much of the Second World War with the Third Escort Group and became a target ship in 1943.
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HMS Ambuscade as a 1924 destroyer testbed
Ordered in 1924, HMS Ambuscade tested a compact pre-treaty destroyer armament for torpedo attack, surface action, and limited anti-aircraft fire.