Robert Giraud (A755)

Mathll · August 22, 2026, 3:49pm

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Hello everyone, and welcome to this new suggestion.

Today, I am presenting the last of the former German seaplane tenders acquired by French forces after the Second World War: the Robert Giraud (F755 then A755).

Originally named Immelmann and built for the German Navy, the vessel was acquired by the French military following Germany’s defeat. It was subsequently renamed Robert Giraud in honor of Capitaine de Corvette Robert Giraud, who was killed in 1940 while commanding the sloop Bison during a Stuka attack.

Like several other former German vessels acquired by France after the war, the ship was given a new role within the French Navy and converted into an Aviso Colonial, or Colonial Sloop. Its first major deployment took it to Indochina, where it was tasked with supporting French ground forces during the First Indochina War. Operating in a demanding environment, the ship carried out a variety of missions in support of French troops, with both the vessel and its crew distinguishing themselves during the conflict and receiving several decorations for their service.

In 1954, following the end of French involvement in Indochina, the Robert Giraud returned to France. Rather than being retired, however, the ship was given a completely new purpose. It underwent a major refit and was converted into an oceanographic research vessel, joining the growing French effort to explore and study the world’s oceans.

Following its conversion, the Robert Giraud was sent back to the Indian Ocean, this time operating primarily in the waters surrounding Madagascar. For the next two decades, the vessel carried out numerous scientific missions, supporting French researchers and conducting oceanographic studies across the region. Its new role allowed the ship to remain active long after its military career in Indochina had come to an end.

The Robert Giraud eventually remained in service until 1977, when it was finally retired

Characteristics

Length : 78.12 m

Width : 11 m

Draft : 4.20 m

Mass : 1 220 tons

The vessel is powered by four 2,200 hp diesel engines, delivering a total output of 8,800 hp and enabling it to cover up to 6,000 miles at a speed of 13 knots. Its crew consists of 108 sailors.

Weapons

The ship’s armament is quite interesting, comprising an assortment of medium- and light-caliber guns that allow it to defend against various types of threats, provided they are not heavily armored.

1 x 150mm gun (forward turret)
2 x 40mm guns (mounts on either side of the bridge)
4 x 20mm guns (twin mounts along the sides)
2 x machine guns (unknown caliber)
1 x mortar

In-game, this vessel would be an interesting addition to the French tree, offering a ship of respectable size but light armament that could round out either the coastal or blue-water line.

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