Although the Medinas were exceptionally provided with masts to extend their range and independence, in essence they were available for similar operations to their un-masted sisters; offensive action against shore defences.

Their ungainly appearance led them to be described by the naval historian Antony Preston as "the most grotesque craft ever seen".

[3] All the ships of the class were fitted with a pair of R and W Hawthorn 2-cylinder horizontal single-expansion steam engines of 60 nominal horsepower.

[3] Trent was launched from the Jarrow yard of Palmers Shipbuilding and Iron Company on 23 August 1877.

[4] She was re-commissioned at Chatham 21 December 1901 by Boatswain A. S. Robinson for service in the river Medway.