The engines were designed to produce 20,000 shaft horsepower (15,000 kW) which was intended to give her a speed of 31 knots (57 km/h; 36 mph).

During her sea trials, Enseigne Gabolde reached a speed in excess of 33 knots (61 km/h; 38 mph) from 26,000 shp (19,000 kW).

[3] The ship stowed 196 tonnes (193 long tons) of fuel oil that gave her a range of 1,300 nautical miles (2,400 km; 1,500 mi) at cruising speeds of 14 knots (26 km/h; 16 mph).

The ship was also fitted with two twin mounts for 550-millimeter (21.7 in) torpedo tubes amidships.

[1] Enseigne Gabolde was ordered from Chantiers et Ateliers Augustin Normand and was laid down on 26 June 1914.