Jeanne d’Arc-class

The Jeanne d'Arc was a helicopter cruiser constructed for the French Navy by DCAN at the Arsenal de Brest. Laid down in 1959 and launched in 1961, the vessel entered service as La Résolue while its predecessor of the same name remained active. It was renamed Jeanne d'Arc upon commissioning in 1964.

The vessel's design supported a dual-purpose role. In peacetime, it functioned as a training ship for the naval officers' application academy. In the event of crisis or emergency, it was configured to operate as a combat-capable helicopter cruiser. The ship's aviation facilities included a flight deck and hangar designed to accommodate light and heavy helicopters, including the Super Frelon, Puma, Gazelle, Alouette III, and Lynx. The design allowed for the simultaneous takeoff and landing of multiple aircraft. Operational capabilities included anti-submarine warfare and the transport of landing troops for external missions. In 1974, the ship was modified to carry Exocet anti-ship missiles. Two of its gun turrets were removed in 2000. In its final years of operation, the vessel's utility was limited by the increasing dimensions and weight of modern naval helicopters.

Based in Brest, the Jeanne d'Arc conducted annual training cruises for midshipmen and cadet officers. In April 2008, the vessel was deployed to the Gulf of Aden for anti-piracy operations. It participated in the rescue of the crew of Le Ponant following a hostage-taking incident; onboard Gazelle helicopters were utilized to track and apprehend individuals involved in the hijacking. The ship commenced its final training deployment in December 2009, visiting Africa, South America, the French Antilles, and North America before returning to Brest in May 2010. During this cruise, the vessel was accompanied by the frigate Courbet. The Jeanne d'Arc was removed from active service in June 2010 and decommissioned on September 1, 2010. The hull was subsequently designated Q 860 and transferred to Bordeaux for dismantling, which began in 2014.