HMS Defence (1907)

HMS Defence was a British Minotaur-class armoured cruiser built for the Royal Navy in the first decade of the 20th century. She was laid down in February 1905, launched in April 1907, and completed in February 1909. She served in the Home Fleet upon commissioning and later joined the Mediterranean Fleet in 1912.

At the outbreak of World War I, Defence participated in the pursuit of the German battlecruiser Goeben and light cruiser Breslau in the Mediterranean. After failing to intercept them, she was assigned to the Grand Fleet and participated in operations in the North Sea.

Defence took part in the Battle of Jutland on 31 May 1916. She was assigned to the 1st Cruiser Squadron and engaged German light cruisers early in the battle. Later in the engagement, she was caught in the crossfire of several German battleships and battlecruisers. She suffered a catastrophic explosion and sank with the loss of all hands, numbering over 900 officers and men. The wreck of Defence is designated as a protected place under the Protection of Military Remains Act 1986.