The M-class was an improved version of the earlier L-class, required to reach the higher speed in order to counter rumoured German fast destroyers.

296 long tons (301 t) of oil were carried, giving a design range of 3,450 nautical miles (6,390 km; 3,970 mi) at 15 knots (28 km/h; 17 mph).

[5] Plover was laid down by Hawthorn Leslie of Hebburn on the River Tyne on 14 July 1915, launched on 3 March the following year and completed on 2 June.

[8] The vessel was deployed as part of the Grand Fleet, joining the Fourteenth Destroyer Flotilla, remaining there until the end of the war.

On 14 February 1917, for example, Plover formed part of a flotilla of four destroyers that patrolled the area off the coast between Aberdeen and Peterhead, although in this instance no enemy vessels were found.