France tests upgraded M51.3 ballistic missile from submarine

France has successfully conducted the first submarine-launched test of the upgraded M51.3 strategic ballistic missile. The launch was carried out by the nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine Le Vigilant off the coast of Finistère in western France, with the missile impacting the water in the North Atlantic Ocean.

President Emmanuel Macron described the test as a “very important” moment for the credibility of France’s nuclear deterrent, noting that both allies and adversaries are closely monitoring these developments. The M51.3 upgrade is part of a broader modernization program for France’s strike forces, which includes the construction of new ballistic missile submarines and future upgrades to Rafale fighter jets.

Produced by ArianeGroup, the M51 missile family is designed for high-speed reentry, reaching speeds of approximately Mach 20. While the official range has not been disclosed, estimates from the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists suggest the M51.3 range exceeds 9,500 kilometers, an increase from the previous version's 9,000-kilometer range.