French destroyers built in 1909 and 1910 expanded into the 700 to 800 ton range, with roughly 100 tons of variation among yards. On vessels this small, that difference represented a substantial change in displacement and exposed weak design control. The Bouclier-era ships adopted two 100 mm Mle 1893 guns, four 65 mm guns, and twin 450 mm torpedo mounts in a revised hull form. Range reached about 1,600 nautical miles at roughly 12 to 14 knots. Trial speeds ranged from about 29.3 to 35.5 knots, so the class is usually credited with 30 knots rather than its fastest result. France built twelve, giving the fleet a substantial group whose capabilities were much closer to contemporary foreign destroyers.
Chapter · 35:12-38:20
Bouclier-era ships approach contemporary destroyers
Bouclier-era destroyers reach 700 to 800 tons with 100 mm guns, twin torpedo mounts, revised hulls, and performance closer to foreign peers.