What was the first British ironclad ship launched in 1861?

The first British ironclad ship launched in 1861 is HMS Warrior. This ship marked a significant advancement in naval technology, being one of the first iron-hulled warships that utilized steam power instead of relying solely on sails. HMS Warrior's design represented a transformation in naval warfare, as it was heavily armed and armored, equipped with a sprawling broadside of guns, and could withstand cannon fire that would have easily penetrated wooden ships of the time. Its launch signaled the beginning of the era of the modern battleship, influencing naval designs and strategies in the years to come.

The other options, though noteworthy ships in their own right, were launched after HMS Warrior. HMS Devastation was launched in 1873 and was notable for being one of the first ocean-going, turret-mounted ironclads. HMS Dreadnought, launched in 1906, became famous for revolutionizing battleship design again by introducing the all-big-gun battleship concept. HMS Invincible, launched in 1907, was significant for its battlecruiser design. While these ships played important roles in naval history, they came after HMS Warrior and its pioneering significance.