The Ironclad Turret Ship SMS Grosser Kurfurst, or “Great Elector" was commissioned on May 6, 1878, just in time to participate in the Imperial German Navy’s summer training cruise. That cruise would prove disastrous for both the ship and the Navy.
The first class of nuclear submarines were a learning experience for the Soviet Navy. The November class boats experienced numerous difficulties and accidents, culminating in what has been described as a potential “Underwater Chernobyl."