France tests strategic ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads

PARIS, Oct. 06 (YPA) – France conducted a test launch of a strategic ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads, without equipping it with a nuclear warhead, off the coast of Finistère in the west of the country, in an experiment that authorities said was in line with its international obligations.

 

BFM TV quoted the Ministry of the Armed Forces as saying that the missile was launched from the nuclear submarine “Le Vigilantes” and landed in the North Atlantic Ocean hundreds of kilometers away.

 

The ministry confirmed that the test was carried out without a nuclear warhead, while media reported that President Emmanuel Macron monitored the launch from aboard a navy frigate.

 

According to the ministry, the M51.3 missile has been in service since October 2025 and is deployed on board the four French submarines. France constantly maintains at least one submarine at sea to ensure its nuclear deterrent capability.