HMS Bittern (1897)

HMS Bittern was a Dryad-class torpedo gunboat built for the Royal Navy in the late 1890s. These vessels were designed to counter the threat posed by torpedo boats of other nations. Built by Devonport Dockyard, Bittern was launched in 1897.

As a torpedo gunboat, Bittern was armed with two 4.7-inch (120 mm) quick-firing guns, four 6-pounder quick-firing guns, and two 18-inch (450 mm) torpedo tubes. She displaced 1,070 tons and was powered by triple-expansion steam engines, giving her a speed of around 19 knots.

Bittern served primarily in home waters throughout her career. She was assigned to various stations and roles, including anti-submarine duties during World War I. The relatively small size and limited range of the Dryad class meant they were less useful as the war progressed.

The ship was sold out of service in 1920.