The M51.3, a modernised variant of France's submarine‑launched ballistic missile family, entered service in October 2025 and is estimated to reach beyond 9,000 km. The launch followed a major maintenance overhaul of the nuclear submarine Le Vigilant, which the navy said will now be certified to deploy the missile.
Last week President Vladimir Putin warned the West that any escalation over Ukraine could trigger a nuclear response aimed at the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. He said Russia would defend the territory with nuclear weapons if necessary, a threat that flared amid diplomatic tensions.
Macron, in a video posted on X, said "Today we are stronger. The message has been sent loud and clear for wherever it must be received," echoing his earlier pledge to expand France’s nuclear arsenal and to offer joint exercises with NATO allies.
The Defence Ministry confirmed the missile was fired without a nuclear payload, in strict compliance with international obligations, and that France will continue to conduct joint exercises with NATO allies to demonstrate its deterrent. The next step is a series of coordinated drills in the Atlantic, set to begin next month.
The launch underscores France's position as the world's fourth‑largest nuclear power, with an arsenal of 290 warheads, and signals a renewed commitment to maintaining strategic deterrence amid a complex geopolitical landscape.