The French Navy has a history of highs and lows; both in terms of successes in battle and in the number and quality of its ships. In the mid-1700s; after the defeats of the Seven Years’ War; the French Navy was at a nadir. However; due to the efforts of Louis XV and later Louis XVI; France rebuilt and reinforced its fleets with well-designed and well-built ships.

Why sail the French Navy?

Though French gunnery and training had formally equalled that of its Spanish and British counterparts prior to the French revolution; those events severely weakened the French Navy. High ranking officers had been removed or even guillotined; and inexperienced crewmen through necessity had been promoted.

French ships; however; were generally well built; and quick. This is reflected in the national special rules for the French Navy. They are able to purchase both the 'sturdy' and 'streamlined' upgrades for a discounted cost. French crews were also trained to shoot high; in order to capture enemy ships rather than destroy them. As such; they do not suffer the same penalties to hit when aiming high as the other navies do.

Contents:

3 plastic frigates
6 plastic brigs
3 plastic third rates
1 resin & metal first-rate
1 gun boats base
A selection of Metal figureheads and backplates to make famous French Navy Ships:
Redoubtable - a 74 gun third-rate ship of the line
Themis - a 40 gun frigate
L'Aigle - a 74 gun third-rate ship of the line
L'Hermione - a 32 gun frigate
Comete - a frigate
Bucentaure - an 80 gun third-rate ship of the line
French Navy Flags; Sails & rigging sheets Bobbin for Rigging
Game cards and wake markers