French Bearn Aircraft Carrier

Béarn was converted from an unfinished French battleship hull into an aircraft carrier during the interwar period. It gave the Marine Nationale experience in carrier aviation but suffered from limited speed and other compromises inherent in conversion. During the Second World War its service centered more on transport and related duties than on modern fleet-carrier combat operations. Béarn’s comparatively modest performance limited its ability to accompany fast fleet operations, a problem compounded by the rapid improvement of carrier aircraft and operating methods. France’s interest in new purpose-built carriers reflected those limitations. The ship nevertheless provided important practical experience in deck handling, aviation support, and the organization of a national carrier service.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in the Global War series of games by Historical Board Gaming and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

Global War is a trademark of Historical Board Gaming.