Almirante Cochrane

The Almirante Latorre class represented a significant development in naval ambitions, commissioned by the Chilean Navy from a British builder. These powerful vessels were designed to be Chile's contribution to a regional naval arms race, drawing parallels with contemporary British designs. The intended entries for Chile, however, were ultimately acquired by the Royal Navy for service during the First World War before they could be delivered.

One ship, Almirante Latorre, was completed as a battleship and served with the Grand Fleet, participating in the Battle of Jutland under the name HMS Canada. The other vessel, Almirante Cochrane, was adapted into an aircraft carrier. Their original Chilean names commemorated notable admirals, while their British identities reflected a dominion and a traditional naval designation. The acquisition of these ships by the UK highlighted the shifting demands of global conflict and the previously established naval competition between Chile and its neighbours.