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French Cruisers 1922-1956: The Design and Operational History of the Marine Nationale's Interwar and Post-War Cruisers

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The French Navy's cruisers played a vital role in the defense of France and its overseas empire during the interwar and post-war periods. These ships were designed to perform a variety of tasks, including anti-aircraft warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and gunfire support. They also served as flagships for admirals and as escorts for convoys and task forces.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the design, development, and operational history of the French Navy's cruisers from 1922 to 1956. It covers a wide range of topics, including the technical specifications, armament, and performance of these ships, as well as their roles in various conflicts, such as World War II and the Indochina War. The book is extensively illustrated with photographs, diagrams, and tables, and it includes a detailed bibliography and index.

French Cruisers, 1922–1956

by Jean Moulin

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	103347 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	646 pages
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Chapter 1: The Interwar Cruisers

The interwar period was a time of great technological change for naval warfare. The development of new weapons and technologies, such as aircraft carriers and submarines, led to a reassessment of the role of cruisers. In France, the interwar period saw the construction of a number of new cruisers, including the Duguay-Trouin class and the La Galissonnière class. These ships were designed to be fast, powerful, and well-armed. They were also equipped with the latest anti-aircraft and anti-submarine weapons.

Chapter 2: The World War II Cruisers

The French Navy's cruisers played a vital role in World War II. They were involved in a number of major naval battles, including the Battle of the Atlantic and the Battle of the Mediterranean. The cruisers also provided gunfire support for Allied landings in North Africa and Italy.

The most famous French cruiser of World War II was the Jean Bart. This ship was laid down in 1936 and completed in 1940. She was one of the most powerful cruisers in the world, and she played a major role in the defense of France during the early stages of the war. The Jean Bart was sunk in Toulon in 1942 to prevent her from falling into German hands.

Chapter 3: The Post-War Cruisers

After World War II, the French Navy began to rebuild its fleet. The new cruisers that were built in the post-war period were smaller and less powerful than their predecessors, but they were also more versatile. They were designed to perform a variety of tasks, including anti-aircraft warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and gunfire support.

The most important post-war cruiser was the De Grasse class. These ships were laid down in the late 1940s and completed in the early 1950s. They were the first French cruisers to be equipped with guided missiles. The De Grasse class cruisers served in a variety of roles, including anti-aircraft warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and gunfire support. They were also used as flagships for admirals and as escorts for convoys and task forces.

The French Navy's cruisers played a vital role in the defense of France and its overseas empire during the interwar and post-war periods. These ships were designed to perform a variety of tasks, and they served with distinction in a number of conflicts. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the design, development, and operational history of these ships, and it is a valuable resource for anyone interested in naval history.

Bibliography

Gardiner, Robert and Chesneau, Roger. Conway's All the World's Fighting Ships 1922-1946. London: Conway Maritime Press, 1980.
Jordan, John and Moulin, Jean. French Cruisers 1922-1956. Annapolis: Naval Institute Press, 2019.
Rohwer, Jurgen and Hummelchen, Gerhard. Chronology of the War at Sea 1939-1945. Annapolis: Naval Institute Press, 1992.
Whitley, M.J. Cruisers of World War II. London: Arms and Armour Press, 1995.