Joffre was intended as a purpose-built successor to Béarn and part of a possible three-carrier French force. Its projected air group emphasized twenty-five twin-engine torpedo-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft alongside fifteen fighters, an unusual choice with potential range and payload advantages. The 236-metre, twin-screw design was projected at 18,000 tons standard and 25,000 tons normal. Its stated endurance was 7,000 nautical miles at 20 knots or 3,000 nautical miles at 33 knots, fitting the intended North Atlantic role. The flight deck was arranged for landings from either direction. Large elevators near the bow and stern, however, placed vulnerable openings close to the most demanding takeoff and landing areas.
Chapter · 15:54-20:18
Joffre's twin-engine air group and Atlantic role
The proposed Joffre class paired fifteen fighters with twenty-five twin-engine reconnaissance and torpedo aircraft for long-range North Atlantic operations.