Key facts
- France tested its latest-generation M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile.
- The missile was launched off the coast of Brittany.
- The test launch did not include a nuclear warhead.
- The test was conducted to certify the nuclear-submarine Le Vigilant's ability to deploy the weapon.
- President Emmanuel Macron stated the test sent a clear message.
- France spends approximately €5.6 billion ($6.04 billion) annually to maintain its nuclear arsenal.
France conducted the first test launch of its latest-generation M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile off the coast of Brittany on Tuesday, a move underscoring its nuclear deterrent capabilities amid heightened tensions with Russia. The missile was not equipped with a nuclear warhead and was launched as part of an operation to certify the nuclear-submarine Le Vigilant's ability to deploy the weapon following a major maintenance overhaul.
The test comes at a time of increased geopolitical friction, following President Vladimir Putin's warning to the West regarding escalation over Ukraine and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. While the announcement did not directly mention Russia, President Emmanuel Macron stated in a video message that the test sent a "loud and clear" message.
France maintains the world's fourth-largest nuclear arsenal, with approximately 290 submarine- and air-launched weapons, and spends about €5.6 billion ($6.04 billion) annually to maintain it. The M51.3 is the latest version of the missile, which entered service in October 2025 as part of France's nuclear deterrent modernization. Publicly available estimates place the range of the M51 family at around 9,000 km (5,600 miles) or more, with French officials indicating the new version can travel further.