And with a name like that, you won't soon forget it. Especially when the HMAS Vampire served in two wars, both World War I and World War II before being sunk by Japanese forces off the coast of Sri Lanka in 1942. And now the HMAS Vampire is coming to World of Warships, and in the process putting Australia on the naval action MMO map.

Originally launched by the Royal British Navy in 1917 to serve in World War I, the HMAS Vampire was transferred to the Royal Australian Navy, arriving in Sydney on 21 December 1933. After six years patrolling Australian waters, she was deployed to World War II to form part of the so-called ‘Scrap Iron Flotilla’, performing essential patrol and escort duties as battle for the Mediterranean escalated.

In 1941, the Vampire moved to Singapore, withstanding a barrage of attacks to rescue hundreds of lives in battle off the coast of Malaysia. She was eventually sunk by Japanese forces off Sri Lanka on 8 April 1942, her place in Commonwealth naval folklore assured after 25 years of outstanding service.

To celebrate the launch a special Vampire Marathon event is running from now until December 20, where playing any five battles players can win the new ship. Which has been recreated in-game using original design schematics. Very cool.