The Evolution and Legacy of French Armoured Cruisers from 1887 to 1932: A Closer Look at Ruben Ygua's Masterpiece

The history of naval warfare is dotted with iconic vessels that have shaped the outcome of significant conflicts. Among these, French armoured cruisers stand out as formidable war machines that not only provided firepower but also acted as symbols of naval superiority. In this article, we will delve into the evolution and legacy of French armoured cruisers from 1887 to 1932, with a special focus on the works of renowned naval architect Ruben Ygua.

What are Armoured Cruisers?

Armoured cruisers were a unique class of warships that emerged in the late 19th century. As the name suggests, these vessels were armed with heavy guns and had a thick armor belt to protect against enemy fire. They served as versatile ships capable of engaging both enemy fleets and coastal defenses. The French Navy, known for its commitment to naval innovation, played a significant role in the development and deployment of armoured cruisers.

The French Armoured Cruiser Revolution

In 1887, the French Navy embarked on a revolutionary journey by commissioning the construction of its first armoured cruiser, the Dupuy de Lôme. Designed by naval architect Lucien Hervé, this vessel laid the groundwork for future French armoured cruisers. It featured a distinctive armored citadel that housed the ship's machinery and vital components, ensuring their protection during combat.

French Armoured Cruisers, 1887–1932

by Ruben Ygua (Kindle Edition)

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Following the success of the Dupuy de Lôme, naval architect Ruben Ygua began leaving his mark on French armoured cruisers. Ygua's designs were characterized by improved firepower, increased speed, and enhanced protection. With his visionary approach, he set the stage for a new era of French naval dominance.

The Masterpiece: French Armoured Cruiser 'Ruben Ygua'

In 1910, Ruben Ygua unveiled his masterpiece, the eponymous 'Ruben Ygua' armoured cruiser. This extraordinary vessel embodied his innovative design principles and incorporated cutting-edge technologies of the time. With a displacement of over 12,000 tons, it boasted an impressive armament of 16 guns, including 12-inch guns, allowing it to engage enemy ships and coastal targets with devastating precision.

What set the 'Ruben Ygua' apart was its unrivaled speed, a remarkable feat considering its size. Powered by state-of-the-art turbines, it could reach speeds of up to 25 knots, outpacing many contemporary ships. This swiftness gave the 'Ruben Ygua' a tactical advantage, enabling it to maneuver quickly and engage enemies at will.

The Legacy of French Armoured Cruisers

The impact of French armoured cruisers on naval history cannot be overstated. These warships played vital roles in significant naval conflicts, including World War I. Their formidable firepower, sturdy armor, and versatility were instrumental in protecting French interests and maintaining dominance on the high seas.

Ruben Ygua's designs were particularly influential and left a lasting legacy. His innovative ideas shaped the direction of naval architecture, paving the way for future advancements in warship design. The 'Ruben Ygua' armoured cruiser, as a symbol of his vision and skill, remains an enduring testament to his contributions to the French Navy and the world of naval warfare.

The era of French armoured cruisers from 1887 to 1932 marked a period of remarkable innovation and naval superiority. Spearheaded by the designs of naval architect Ruben Ygua, these warships pushed the boundaries of technology, combining firepower, speed, and protection like never before. Today, their legacy lives on, reminding us of the French Navy's commitment to excellence and the remarkable contributions of Ruben Ygua.

French Armoured Cruisers, 1887–1932

by Ruben Ygua (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	121344 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	273 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

“Offers a fascinating look at the French Navy during the years leading up to World War I . . . an excellent addition to any naval library.” —Naval Historical Foundation

Of all the threats faced by the Royal Navy during the first years of the twentieth century, the one which stood out was the risk to Britain’s sea lines of communication posed by France’s armoured cruisers. Fast, well-armed and well-protected, these ships could have evaded any attempted blockade of the French ports and, supported by a worldwide network of overseas bases, could potentially have caused havoc on the trade routes. Between 1898 and 1901 the French laid down thirteen ships, and completed nine in 1903–4 alone.

This book has as its subject the French armoured cruisers built from the late 1880s until shortly before the outbreak of the Great War, beginning with the revolutionary Dupuy-de-Lôme, the world’s first modern armoured cruiser, and ending with the impressive six-funnelled Edgar Quinet and Waldeck-Rousseau. The primary focus of the book is on the technical characteristics of the ships. Detailed and labelled drawings based on the official plans are provided by John Jordan, and each individual class of ship is illustrated by photographs from the extensive personal collection of Philippe Caresse. The technical section is followed by a history in two parts, covering the Great War (1914–18) and the postwar years, during which the surviving ships saw extensive deployment as “station” cruisers overseas and as training ships. This is the most comprehensive account published in English or in French, and is destined be the standard reference for many years to come.

“Brilliant, absolutely brilliant.” —War History Online