SMS Dresden was a light cruiser of the Imperial German Navy, launched in 1915. It was part of the Dresden-class and was designed for reconnaissance and commerce raiding. The ship was equipped with various artillery and had a displacement of around 5,000 tons. During World War I, SMS Dresden was active in the South Atlantic and participated in naval engagements against British forces. After being cornered in 1915, the ship was scuttled by its crew in the Chilean port of Juan Fernández Islands to prevent capture.