On February 10, 1906, at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in England, a grand launching ceremony unfolded for a highly anticipated warship. Sir Fisher, Lord of the Admiralty, and numerous British naval generals attended, underscoring the significance of this event for the British Navy.
The star of the occasion was the 'Dreadnought,' the cutting-edge first-class battleship that had garnered global attention. Initiated merely four months earlier on October 2, the ship's rapid construction was nothing short of miraculous, a feat achievable only by the advanced facilities of the British Navy's shipyard.
The director of the naval shipyard, brimming with pride, reported, "Minister of the Navy, our construction progress has been exceptionally smooth. After the launch, outfitting will commence, with an estimated completion in six to eight months. In just one year, we will have built the most powerful battleship globally."
Undoubtedly, the shipyard had set a new record in shipbuilding speed. With a wealth of experience, British shipyards stood unparalleled globally. While the 'Dreadnought's' individual performance might not outshine other dreadnoughts, its significance as the world's first full-heavy artillery battleship was epoch-making.
Surveying the colossal battleship on the berth, Sir Fisher nodded in satisfaction. He acknowledged that, once again, the British Navy was leading the world. The 'Dreadnought' promised to render all other battleships obsolete, a testament to Britain's naval prowess.
The 'Dreadnought' introduced the "All-Big-Gun" concept, featuring ten 12-inch main guns of the same model, positioned in five twin-mounted turrets along the ship's centerline. It marked a departure from traditional battleship designs and emphasized unified fire control systems. The battleship incorporated four steam turbine units, offering increased speed and reliability, with a surface-hardened armor of 11 inches providing comprehensive protection.
The launching ceremony commenced, and Sir Fisher delivered a resounding speech: "Gentlemen, the Royal Navy of the British Empire has been the world's most powerful navy for centuries. Our navy safeguards the British Empire's global colonies and deters other nations. While some seek to challenge our dominance, we stand proud as the leading naval force. Today, we usher in one of the most powerful battleships globally, ensuring the continued strength of the Royal Navy. Long live the British Empire! God bless the British Empire!"
The resounding cheers of naval officers, soldiers, and shipyard workers echoed through the air, reflecting their pride in the British Empire's maritime strength.
Amidst the celebratory atmosphere, the 'Dreadnought' gracefully slid into the sea. Champagne bottles christened its hull, marking the climax of the launching ceremony.
Sir Fisher, after the festivities, promptly returned to London to report to Prime Minister Sir Henry Campbell Benavan on the 'Dreadnought's' status.
The British Prime Minister, understanding the pivotal role of the navy in the fate of the nation, took a keen interest in the report. That night, after dinner, Prime Minister Sir Benavan dedicated time to discuss the 'Dreadnought.'
"Sit down, Lord of the Admiralty. How is our new battleship progressing?" inquired Sir Benavan.
"Your Excellency, though recently launched, the 'Dreadnought' is a formidable battleship. I am confident that its entry into service will stun the world. The revolutionary design concepts we've employed render all previous battleships, including our own, obsolete. This ship will redefine naval warfare," Sir Fisher declared with unwavering confidence.
Acknowledging the impact on their existing fleet, Sir Benarvin nodded in satisfaction, "Indeed, it renders many of our battleships obsolete. Nevertheless, the British Empire possesses ample financial resources to maintain a powerful navy. Our shipbuilding capabilities ensure a rapid replacement of battleships, securing our naval dominance."