She took part in the War of American Independence, where she was captured by the French Navy and brought into their service.

She was part on the squadron under Grasse until a British frigate recaptured her.

She patrolled in the Gulf of Biscay until Diligente captured her on 25 September 1780 off the Gironde.

[1] Alerte was attached to the squadron of Grasse, under Ensign Gallien de Chabons.

[3][4][5] On 28 November 1781, the 36-gun frigate HMS Perseverance recaptured her after a long battle.