HMS Furious (1850)

HMS Furious was a wood-hulled paddle sloop of the Royal Navy, launched in 1850. She was originally designed and built as a steam-powered warship, intended for both combat and surveying duties. Her design incorporated significant armament alongside the steam engine and paddle wheels, making her a formidable vessel for her time.

Furious saw service in various locations, including deployments to the Mediterranean and the Far East. During her time in the Far East, she participated in the Second Opium War (1856-1860), playing a role in naval operations against Chinese forces. She was also involved in surveying activities in the region, contributing to the mapping and charting of coastal waters.

In 1867, Furious was reclassified as a surveying vessel and refitted for this specific role. Her armament was removed to create more space for surveying equipment and accommodations for scientific personnel. She subsequently undertook extensive surveying work in the Pacific Ocean, contributing to the development of navigational charts and scientific knowledge of the region.

Ultimately, HMS Furious was sold out of service in 1885, marking the end of her career after more than three decades of service to the Royal Navy in both combat and scientific roles. She represents a transitional era in naval technology, bridging the gap between traditional sail-powered warships and the ironclad era.