HMS Virago (1895)

HMS Virago was a Royal Navy torpedo boat destroyer built by John I. Thornycroft and Company. She was one of three Quail-class destroyers ordered under the 1894-1895 Naval Programme.

Virago was laid down in June 1895, launched in March 1896, and completed in January 1897. She was powered by two Thornycroft water-tube boilers feeding two three-cylinder triple-expansion steam engines, driving twin screws. Her designed speed was 27 knots (50 km/h; 31 mph). She was armed with one 12-pounder (76 mm) quick-firing gun, five 6-pounder (57 mm) quick-firing guns, and two 18-inch (450 mm) torpedo tubes.

During her service, Virago served primarily in the Channel Fleet and later the Home Fleet. Like many early destroyers, she underwent several modifications and refits throughout her career to improve her performance and adapt to changing naval technology.

She participated in various fleet exercises and maneuvers, contributing to the development of destroyer tactics in the Royal Navy.

Virago was sold for scrap in 1919, after serving for over two decades.