The Tonnerre (L9014) is an amphibious assault helicopter carrier of the French Marine Nationale.
She was launched on 26 July 2005 and joined active service in December 2006.
The Tonnerre is equipped with combat detection systems linked to a SENIT 9 system that allows integrated sharing of information between units of a fleet. The communication systems and other equipment allow the Tonnerre to host a 200-person general staff.
She is capable of deploying 16 NH90 or Tigre helicopters, or 35 Arospatiale Gazelles and has a reinforced forward pod, so as to be able to accommodate 30-tonne helicopters such as the CH-53E Super Stallion; four landing barges or two LCAC; and 70 vehicles, including a 13-tank Leclerc battalion, with up to 450 soldiers (900 for a short period).
The Tonnerre features light, short-range missiles and cannons for last-resort self-defence.
She is seen here on the Clyde with one of her landing craft, about to take part in Operation Joint Warrior, 6-16 October.
