**RMS Moldavia** was a British passenger liner launched in 1903, later requisitioned as an armed merchant cruiser during World War I. It was sunk by a German submarine in 1918, resulting in significant loss of life.
## History
### Construction and Early Service
RMS Moldavia was built by Vickers, Sons & Maxim Ltd in Barrow-in-Furness and launched in 1903. Initially operated by the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O), it served as a passenger and mail ship on routes between Britain and India.
### World War I Service
With the outbreak of World War I, Moldavia was converted into an armed merchant cruiser for the Royal Navy. It was equipped with naval guns and used for patrolling and escort duties.
### Sinking
On May 23, 1918, while transporting troops and supplies in the Mediterranean Sea, RMS Moldavia was torpedoed by the German submarine U-81 near the coast of Alexandria, Egypt. The attack caused the ship to sink, resulting in the deaths of 54 people.
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**Meta Description:**
RMS Moldavia was a British passenger liner turned armed merchant cruiser during World War I, sunk by a German submarine in 1918. It played a significant role in maritime operations before its sinking.