They were built by La Perrière in Lorient, Ateliers et Chantiers de la Manche (ACM) in Saint-Malo, and Société Française de Construction Navale (SFCN).

These vessels have a secondary role of anti-pollution work and coastal patrol, and are still in active service as of 2022.

[4] Power is transmitted via two shafts turning two controllable pitch propellers creating 1,600 kilowatts (2,200 shp).

[6][7] All eight ships were initially assigned to the 20th division school, which was formed on 20 January 1983 in Brest, and dissolved on 13 July 1993.

During periods of one to three weeks at sea, students become familiar with the basic functions of chief officer on watch, running lines in navigation groups or solo, life on board, and teamwork.