They were sometimes described as the Yarrow R class of destroyers, although they lacked the geared steam turbines of their sisters.

The design was based on the preceding and successful Yarrow M class with minor alterations; notably reduced beam to compensate for increased displacement and a sloping stern.

As the First World War progressed, the Royal Navy required more, and more modern, warships.

[3] They were similar to the preceding Yarrow M class but distinguished by their greater tonnage, narrower beam and sloping sterns.

Power was provided by three Yarrow boilers feeding Parsons direct-drive steam turbines rated at 27,000 shaft horsepower (20,000 kW).