Prince Eugene was the only Royal Navy ship named for Prince Eugene of Savoy. Harland and Wolff's Govan yard took her from laying down in February to launch on 4 July and commission on 2 September 1915. A crew of 194, including twelve officers, made the monitor comparatively economical to operate for the weight of fire it could deliver. Although selected for an 18-inch conversion, delays to the gun and mounting meant that the ship decommissioned before receiving them. The specialized bombardment hull was built quickly, but its intended weapon supply outlasted the operational window.
Notable Point · 11:24-12:55
Prince Eugene's rapid build and delayed 18-inch gun
HMS Prince Eugene illustrates the Lord Clive class's rapid wartime construction, economical crew, and unrealized plan for an 18-inch gun.