This heavy destroyer design was constructed to serve as escort for larger warships of the period, including the Excelsior Cruiser and (later) the Ambassador Heavy Cruiser. Ships of this class are heavily armed for their size and quite maneuverable, which they use to their advantage.

Decker Destroyers were overshadowed by later starship developments, including such ships as the Steamrunner and Norway. Such developments forced the Decker Destroyers into support roles in the fleet.