French Air Force conducts nuclear strike simulation

The French Air and Space Force conducted a nuclear strike simulation as part of the military exercise ‘Poker’. The operation involved approximately 50 aircraft and was launched from the Saint-Dizier and Taverny air bases, which serve as critical hubs for France’s strategic nuclear deterrent.

Rafale fighter jets participated in the exercise, utilizing inert mockups that match the weight and dimensions of actual ASMP-A nuclear missiles rather than live warheads. These mockups are designed to be safely jettisoned if necessary. The actual missile system has a maximum range of about 500 kilometers and carries a 300-kiloton TNA nuclear warhead.

The exercise featured two opposing teams, ‘red’ representing the enemy and ‘blue’ acting in opposition. Pilots were tasked with penetrating enemy defenses to deliver projectiles to specific locations within set timeframes. The drills included complex maneuvers, such as six-to-eight-hour night flights and multiple mid-air refuelings from tanker aircraft.

Military officials stated that the purpose of the exercise is deterrence, aiming to prevent war and the subsequent use of nuclear weapons. Commanders emphasized that the training ensures readiness to execute such missions even as technology evolves rapidly.