20 hrs ago
France Test-Fires M51.3 Missile to Signal Nuclear Deterrence
France tested a new version of a missile that can be launched from a submarine.
The test happened off the coast of Brittany.
The missile did not carry a warhead or other payload.
France said the launch helped confirm that the submarine Le Vigilant can use the weapon after maintenance.
President Emmanuel Macron said the test sent a clear message.
The report links the test to increased tensions with Russia over Ukraine, although France's announcement did not mention Russia.
France says it has 290 nuclear weapons launched from submarines and aircraft.
The M51.3 is part of France's effort to modernize its nuclear deterrent.
France said it conducted the first test launch of its latest-generation M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile.
The missile was launched without a payload off the coast of Brittany.
The test certified the nuclear submarine Le Vigilant's ability to deploy the missile after a major maintenance overhaul.
President Emmanuel Macron said the launch sent a clear message; the test comes amid heightened tensions with Russia over Ukraine.
France maintains 290 submarine- and air-launched nuclear weapons and operates four ballistic missile submarines.
- Who
- France's defence ministry announced the test; President Emmanuel Macron commented on it.
- What
- France conducted the first test launch of its latest-generation M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile, without a payload.
- Where
- Off the coast of Brittany, France.
- When
- Tuesday; the article does not provide a calendar date.
- Why
- The launch was conducted to certify Le Vigilant's ability to deploy the missile after a major maintenance overhaul.
Key facts
- Missile
- M51.3, the latest version of France's submarine-launched ballistic missile
- Payload
- No payload was carried during the test
- Submarine
- Le Vigilant
- Launch location
- Off the coast of Brittany
- French nuclear stockpile
- 290 submarine- and air-launched weapons
- French nuclear submarines
- Four ballistic missile submarines form the backbone of France's ocean deterrent
- Estimated M51-family range
- Public estimates generally put it at around 9,000 km or more; France does not disclose the M51.3's range
Quotes
Emmanuel Macron
President of France
“Today we are stronger. The message has been sent loud and clear for wherever it must be received.”
NDTV
Sources
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