French destroyer Cyclone (1925)

The Cyclone was a Bourrasque-class destroyer (torpilleur d'escadre) of the French Navy (Marine Nationale) launched in 1925 and commissioned in 1928. The Bourrasque-class destroyers were designed to be fast, heavily armed ships suitable for escort duty and fleet operations. Cyclone, along with her sister ships, played a significant role in the interwar French fleet.

Design and Characteristics:

Cyclone displaced approximately 1,320 tons standard and 1,825 tons full load. She was powered by two geared turbines fed by three du Temple boilers, giving her a designed speed of around 33 knots. Her main armament consisted of four 130 mm/40 Modèle 1924 guns in single mounts. Anti-aircraft defense comprised two 37 mm Modèle 1925 guns and four 8 mm machine guns. The Cyclone was also equipped with six 550 mm torpedo tubes in two triple mounts. She carried depth charges for anti-submarine warfare.

Service History:

Prior to World War II, Cyclone primarily served in the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, participating in fleet exercises and patrols. During the war, she participated in various operations, including convoy escort and patrol duties in the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

Fate:

The Cyclone was sunk on May 31, 1940, by German aircraft at Dunkirk during the Battle of France. She was assisting in the evacuation of Allied troops. Her wreck remains in the area.