Town-class cruisers were a series of light cruisers built for the British Royal Navy in the early 20th century. Designed for versatility, they were used for various roles, including fleet scouting, anti-submarine warfare, and protecting trade routes. The class included ships like the HMS Town and HMS Birmingham, which featured a combination of speed and firepower. These cruisers were characterized by their relatively small size compared to heavy cruisers, allowing for greater maneuverability. They typically carried a mix of 6-inch guns and lighter armaments, making them effective in both offensive and defensive operations during their service in the World War II era.