They were in fact replacement for the pre-war colonial Aviso like the
Savona de Brazza, built before the war. Their armament reflected that, hence heavy gun armament, but they were also considered as escorts, and ASW ships which explains the reason for the 305mm ASW mortar (which was originally designed to fire HE rounds for shore bombardment as well). These ships were also fitted to carry an entire platoon of marines the life boats were in fact a modified LCP's as built. Later in life they were replaced with regular motor lifeboats.
Here is Victor Schoelcher in 1963, the small LCP type craft clearly seen
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Thank you Kim for the crest
"Never fear to try on something new. Remember that the Titanic was built by professionals, and the Ark by an amateur"