The M-class destroyers were modeled based on the L-class ships but featured improved speed characteristics. Due to rising tensions, the shipbuilding companies started work on the new ships even before the contracts had been signed. As the most modern ship, the M class became the main class for the first military orders with the outbreak of war. Unlike the first series, the design incorporated three funnels instead of four, and the front funnel was taller to improve traction. All ships of the series were named after characters from Greek mythology. During World War I, these ships served in the Harwich Forces and, later, in the Dover Patrol.