France Tests New Ballistic Missile from Nuclear Submarine

pravda.com.ua (Ukrainian) — October 6, 2026 at 02:01 PM UTC

French President Emmanuel Macron witnessed the first test launch of the new M51.3 ballistic missile from the nuclear-powered submarine Le Vigilant. The event marks a significant milestone in France's nuclear deterrence capabilities. Macron observed the launch aboard the multi-mission frigate Auvergne and posted video of it on X. He congratulated the involved agencies, including DGA, CEA, Ariane Group, Naval Group, and the French Navy, emphasizing that few nations possess such expertise. Macron also noted ongoing construction of future strategic submarines and the launch this year of a program for hypersonic maneuvering missiles. The test follows his March speech outlining a "preventive deterrence" doctrine for French nuclear weapons.

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