GoW: Togo - French Descartes-class (Protected cruiser)

GMT-FRA-013 Descartes-class Protected cruiser

Class: 3

Base length: 12 cm (included)

Colour scheme: French (black hull, superstructures, funnels, and masts: “Toile Mouillée,” which corresponds to Vallejo 72.098 Elfic Flesh, or 72.034 Bone White (top 10% of funnels black). Decks Vallejo 72.032 Bone White or lighter, e.g. AK 11114 Deck Tan).

Number of units per pack: 1

Number of units on the base: 1

Number of ship cards included: 1 (protective sleeve included)

Built and commissioned in the mid-1890s, the two Descartes-class protected cruisers, named after famous French philosophers (the second vessel being Pascal), were a response to the French Navy’s need for a greater number of cruisers. Shortages in this class were revealed during fleet manoeuvres conducted in the late 1880s.

The primary role of ships of this type was to serve as scouting vessels operating in support of the fleet, as well as to perform colonial service. With a displacement of around 4,000 tons, these cruisers were large enough to operate independently on the oceans, while also possessing fairly strong armament (four 164.7 mm guns, ten 100 mm guns, twelve light guns, and two torpedo tubes) and respectable armour. Their speed reached 19 knots.

Both ships spent very intensive years in colonial service, including deployments in Asia, near Madagascar, and in European waters. This heavy use meant that Pascal was scrapped in 1911, while Descartes followed shortly after the end of the First World War.

It is worth noting the very distinctive silhouette of this class. Her armament makes her an excellent counter to all destroyers and torpedo boats in opposing fleets.

The models in the set are resin, 3D printed and can be damaged if not handled properly. All models are unpainted. Glue and paints are not included. Contains small parts and is not intended for use by children under 14 years of age.

Instructions on how to prepare models for painting can be found here:
http://www.gmboardgames.com/blog/en/how-to-prepare-3d-printed-models-for-painting/