History & Modifications
Dunkerque:
Dunkerque was used for convoy escort before the French surrender. On 3rd July 1940 at Oran, she was
badly damaged by British shells. Three days later, during a British air raid, a lighter alongside
Dunkerque carrying torpedoes and depth charges exploded when torpedoed by a Swordfish from Ark Royal,
and caused more serious damage.
In February 1942 she was moved to Toulon after temporary repairs were made, but on 27th November 1942
she was scuttled in dry dock. The wreck was removed in 1945 and sold for scrapping in 1958.
Strasbourg:
Strasbourg was used for convoy escort before the French surrender. Strasbourg was at Oran with her
sister, but managed to escape to to Toulon. She was scuttled there on 27th November 1942. In 1943 she
was raised by the Italians, but again sunk in an Allied air raid on 18th August 1944. In 1945 she was
raised and used for experiments until being sold for scrapping in May 1955.