"Fendant" served in the Anglo-French War, notably taking part in the Battle of Grenada. In July 1781, she fought in the Invasion of Minorca before being sent to the Indian Ocean in November to reinforce Suffren's squadron. Arrived there in March 1782, "Fendant" took part in the Battle of Cuddalore on 20 June 1783 as the flagship of Antoine de Thomassin de Peynier, Captain of the Fleet under Read-Admiral Suffren, with Armand de Saint-Félix as flag captain.