 A float-equipped "Canard Voisin" seaplane was bought by the navy for this purpose in December 1911.The "Foudre" would be stationed at Fréjus, working as a seaplane tender, allowing for stowage, repair and supply of the seaplanes.The ship was armed on April 15, 1912, and trials with the "Canard Voisin" then started.