Oudenarde was a battle in which the British participated fought in the Spanish Netherlands, now Belgium, on the 11th July 1708.
The name was intended to be the first such in the Royal Navy when she was ordered as part of the 1943 new construction programme as 1 of 26 group 2 Battle class destroyers. Swan Hunters won her contract as y no 1715 with Admiralty contract/job number J4926 to build at Wallsend with another pair, Corunna and River Plate. Duly laid down 12th October 1944 she entered the Tyne 11th September 1945 to no ceremony and uncertain future. The fates of this trio could not be a greater contrast.
Before the cessation of hostilities it was apparent the British naval shipbuilding programme was over ambitious, unaffordable and unwanted. All needs had expired and most men serving had only one desire, to get home and get demobbed, returning to their civilian professions and trades.
The big cull of the group 2 Battle class builds occurred on 15th October 5 weeks from Oudenarde getting her bottom wet when 16 were cancelled in varying states of build, River Plate amongst others dismantled in situ on their building berths.
So, Oudenarde was in the stream a liability which Swans needed shifting for causing an obstruction to more pressing needs whilst the Admiralty needed to make decisions as to any future she may have, or otherwise.
There was one bonus however. Her machinery was installed. Part 1, to be continued.