Which ship represented a significant advancement in naval technology for its time?

The ship that represented a significant advancement in naval technology for its time is HMS Devastation. Launched in 1869, HMS Devastation was one of the first ocean-going warships to be built without sails, relying entirely on steam power. This shift to steam propulsion allowed for greater speed and maneuverability, changing naval warfare by enabling ships to engage enemies more efficiently.

Additionally, HMS Devastation was among the first all-big-gun battleships, a revolutionary design that offered superior firepower and armor in comparison to its predecessors that carried a mix of armaments. The design also emphasized the importance of heavy guns, with the vessel equipped with large-caliber cannons that could deliver devastating fire.

This innovation set a precedent for future warship designs, establishing a new standard for naval engagements that prioritized speed, firepower, and steam technology over traditional sailing ships. In contrast, the other ships listed did not introduce the same level of technological advancements in naval design and warfare for their time, focusing instead on earlier or more conventional naval characteristics.