Macron witnesses French nuclear missile test from submarine

French President Emmanuel Macron observed the first test launch of an M51.3 intercontinental missile from a nuclear submarine off the coast of Brittany, the Élysée Palace and the French Armed Forces Ministry announced. The unarmed missile, fired from the submarine Le Vigilant, landed in the North Atlantic hundreds of kilometers from any coast. The test aimed to validate the submarine's ability to operate the missile after maintenance, with the flight monitored in compliance with international commitments. The unannounced presidential visit occurred amid rising European tensions, with Macron warning of increased Russian aggression and "hybrid" attacks. He has proposed extending France's nuclear deterrence to European allies while retaining sole authority over its use.