New French M51.3 nuclear missile: Range, accuracy and power explained
Illustrative photo: France adopts new M51.3 nuclear deterrence missile (Getty Images)
France has officially put the updated version of its intercontinental ballistic missile, the M51.3, into service, according to Actu.fr.
According to the publication, these missiles will be deployed on French nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SNLE). The French Ministry of Defense announced that the new version of the M51.3 missile has already been commissioned and will become a key element in the modernization of France’s nuclear deterrence forces.
“The third version of the strategic submarine-launched ballistic missile M51 (M51.3) has entered service, marking an important step in modernizing the oceanic component of France’s nuclear deterrence,” the ministry stated.
Submarine-launched strategic missile
The French Ministry of Defense explained that the M51 submarine-launched strategic ballistic missile is an intercontinental missile equipped with multiple independently targetable nuclear warheads.
It has been in service with the French Strategic Oceanic Forces (FOST) since 2010 and has three modifications: M51.1, M51.2, and M51.3.
The new version
The latest version, M51.3, is equipped with new TNO-2 nuclear warheads. Its introduction into service marks the final stage of a 12-year modernization program. According to French military officials, the missile has increased range, higher accuracy, and greater penetration capability.
The M51.3 will be installed on four French ballistic missile submarines (SNLE), including Le Triomphant. At least one of these submarines will remain permanently deployed at sea to ensure that France retains the capability to launch a nuclear strike even in the event of an attack.
The development of the M51.3 was the result of collaboration between the Defense Procurement Agency (DGA), the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the French Navy, the Commission for Atomic and Alternative Energy (CEA), and the company ArianeGroup.
Next phase: M51.4
In addition, France has already begun a new modernization phase — the M51.4. The contract for its development was awarded to ArianeGroup in August. According to Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, the new missile is already aboard a nuclear submarine and undergoing training tests.
Earlier, Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur stated that his country is ready, in the future, to host British F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear bombs on its territory.
