The launch of HMS Victory took place at Chatham Dockyard, an important naval facility on the River Medway in Kent, England. The ship was designed by the eminent naval architect Sir Thomas Slade and represented a culmination of advancements in shipbuilding and naval warfare strategies of the era. Construction began in 1759, combining the expertise of skilled artisans and the extensive resources of the Royal Navy. The process demanded meticulous craftsmanship and innovative techniques that set the precedent for future warships. Upon her launch, Victory was the largest and most powerful ship in the British fleet, designed as a first-rate ship of the line. Her sheer size, coupled with an armament of 104 guns, marked a new standard in naval engineering.

After her launch, HMS Victory underwent various modifications and was not officially commissioned until 1778. This period allowed for further enhancements to her design, making her more formidable in battle. The ship was not only pivotal in demonstrating British superiority at sea but also became synonymous with Admiral Lord Nelson, who led her in the historic Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. This battle solidified her legacy as one of the most renowned warships in history, a symbol of the Royal Navy’s might and tactical prowess.

Victory's construction and launch highlighted significant periods in British naval power and signaled the ongoing naval arms race in the context of European conflicts, paving the way for future maritime engagements. The ship was meticulously fitted with accommodations for over 800 sailors and officers, showcasing the British commitment to maintaining a strong naval presence. The craftsmanship involved in the Victory was admired and studied, influencing shipbuilding practices well beyond her time.