Gnevny was the first in a series of destroyers built in the U.S.S.R. (Project 7). She had good performance characteristics and very high speed and became the backbone of the Soviet Fleet during WW2. She outmatched the majority of foreign destroyers in terms of artillery firepower. Later, a Project 7U was introduced to improve engine and seagoing qualities but lacked good AA protection, which was constantly improved during the WW2.