She served in Suffren's campaign against the British in India during the American Revolutionary War, and was wrecked in 1783 near Pondicherry.

Started in May 1772 on a design by Antoine Groignard, construction of Fendant proceeded slowly, due to shortages in timber in Rochefort.

In November 1771, a permanent roof was erected over her stacks, as well as that of Réfléchi, making the first ships to be completed in a covered dock.

[1] Fendant served in the Anglo-French War, notably taking part in the Battle of Grenada.

In July 1781, she fought in the Invasion of Minorca before being sent to the Indian Ocean in November to reinforce Suffren's squadron.