As a young naval officer, he distinguished himself during the American Revolutionary War, serving under Admiral d'Estaing.

He served under Admiral de Grasse aboard the Languedoc and took part in the Battle of Martinique.

Chayla fought gallantly during the battle and tried in vain to persuade Brueys to order the fleet to set sail.

He was severely wounded in the French defeat, and he and the Franklin were both captured by the Royal Navy.

After his return to France, Chayla was a fierce critic of the tactics of Villeneuve, Decrès and Ganteaume, and resigned in 1803.