France fires upgraded nuclear-capable missile from submarine for first time

[william]

Key takeaways:

• Submarine Launch: France fired an M51.3 missile from the nuclear-powered ballistic-missile submarine Le Vigilant for the first time, demonstrating strategic capability without a nuclear warhead.
• Missile Upgrade: The M51.3 has a range of over 9,500 km, carries 4–6 MIRVs, reaches Mach 20, and features the new TNO-2 oceanic nuclear warhead for improved accuracy and penetration.
• Strategic Significance: President Macron emphasized the launch as crucial for France's nuclear deterrence credibility, part of broader modernization including new submarines and future hypersonic missile-equipped Rafale jets.

MSN

https://www.eurasiantimes.com/france-fires-nuclear-capable-m51-3-sub-launched-ballistic-missile-for-the-first-time-amid-russian-threats/

France's M51.3 nuclear-capable missile makes first submarine launch

France has test-fired its new M51.3 nuclear-capable ballistic missile from a submarine for the first time in a major weapons test.

interestingengineering.com

Macron observes test of new nuclear-capable missile without warhead

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday observed the test firing of a new nuclear-capable missile without a warhead, according to the Elysée Palace and the Ministry of Defence.

www.france24.com