Linkors of the Kurbe type. The first French dreadnoughts

Linear ships of the Kurbe type (Courbet) not only became the first French dreadnoughts, but also the logical completion of the development of the squadron batteries of the Third Republic. The Kurbe project merged the concept of “All-Big-Gun” (only large guns), the ideas of the national shipbuilding school, which was always marked by the names of outstanding designers and original ships, as well as hard building restrictions. In total in 1910-1914 Four batteries of this type were built - “Kurbe”, “Jean Bar”, “Paris” and “France”. All of them, armed with twelve 305-mm guns, took part in the First World War, waging hostilities in the Mediterranean Sea. “France” and “Jean Bar” were twice in Russia: the imperial - in 1914 and the Fire of the Civil War - in 1919. The first French dreadnoughts turned out to be successful ships, living a long life, diligently supported by frequent modernization. Kurbe and Paris participated in World War II, and Paris managed to survive until 1955.
This book for the first time in all details restores the history of the creation, design, service and combat use of the first French dreadnoughts.
The publication is illustrated by unique drawings and photographs