The Foudroyant was a 90-gun ship of the line of the French Marine Royale, launched in 1693 during the reign of King Louis XIV. As a large warship of its era, it was designed for fleet engagements and represented a significant asset to the French navy during the War of the Grand Alliance (1688–1697).
Service History: The ship's most notable period of service came under the command of the celebrated French privateer and naval officer Jean Bart, who used it as his flagship. Its most prominent engagement was the Battle of Dogger Bank on 17 June 1696. In this action, Foudroyant, leading a squadron commanded by Bart, successfully attacked and captured a large Dutch grain convoy off the Dogger Bank in the North Sea, overcoming its naval escort. This victory was crucial for French supply lines, which were struggling due to Allied blockades.
Later Years and Fate: Following its service in the War of the Grand Alliance, Foudroyant continued in the French navy. Around 1700, the ship underwent a significant modification known as "razing," where its upper deck or number of guns were reduced, likely converting it to a 70-gun ship. This alteration was often done to improve a vessel's stability, seaworthiness, or to adapt it to changing naval requirements. The Foudroyant was eventually broken up in 1702, marking the end of its career.