HMS Revenge, originally launched as Newbury in 1654, was a notable third-rate Speaker-class frigate constructed at Limehouse for the navy of the Commonwealth of England. She was built as a 52-gun vessel, with her name honoring Parliamentarian victories at the battles of Newbury. Her design and armament evolved over her service, reflecting the advanced naval warfare tactics of the period. Initially, Newbury participated in the war against Spain, notably serving in Blake’s fleet during the Battle of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 1657. Following the political upheaval of the Restoration in 1660, she was incorporated into the Royal Navy and renamed HMS Revenge. During this period, she served as a flagship, notably carrying the flag of the senior captain of Prince Rupert’s white squadron under Robert Holmes. Her armament was increased during her service; by 1665, her official guns numbered 58, but in wartime she carried up to 69 guns, including a mixture of demi-cannons, culverins, demi-culverins, sakers, and smaller guns, such as 3-pounders and a solitary falcon. Revenge played an active role in several significant naval battles during the Second Anglo-Dutch War, including the Battle of Lowestoft, the Battle of Vagen in 1665, the Four Days’ Battle, and the St. James’s Day Fight in 1666. She demonstrated her combat effectiveness by destroying seven Algerine warships at the Battle of Bugia Bay in 1671. During the Third Anglo-Dutch War, Revenge participated in the two Battles of Schooneveld, further exemplifying her importance in the Royal Navy’s fleet. Her armament was updated again by 1677 to 62 guns, including 24 24-pounders, demi-culverins, sakers, and smaller guns. However, her active service concluded when she was condemned in 1678, and she was presumably broken up shortly thereafter. HMS Revenge remains a significant example of mid-17th-century naval architecture and combat service in the Royal Navy.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.