France Maintains Nuclear Deterrence With Next-Generation M51.3 Ballistic Missile Launch

France has successfully fired its new M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile from the nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine Le Vigilant off the coast of Finistère.

Conducted without a nuclear warhead, the launch validated the submarine’s strategic weapon system following maintenance and modernization and cleared a key step toward its return to France’s operational nuclear deterrence cycle. The M51.3 is the latest operational version of France’s sea-based ballistic missile and is designed to improve range, accuracy, and penetration capabilities.

Discover the M51.3 missile, the Le Triomphant-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine Le Vigilant, and how France maintains its continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent.

Read more here: https://www.armyrecognition.com/news/navy-news/2026/france-fires-new-m51-3-ballistic-missile-from-nuclear-submarine-le-vigilant-to-restore-readiness

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