France tests upgraded nuclear missile against backdrop of Russia tensions

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1. 1h ago

   France tests upgraded M51.3 nuclear missile amid Russia tensions

   France conducted the first test launch of its latest-generation M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile, reinforcing its nuclear deterrent amid heightened tensions with Russia. The missile was launched off Brittany's coast as part of an operation to certify the nuclear-submarine Le Vigilant's ability to deploy the weapon. This development underscores France's commitment to its nuclear capabilities.

   Why it matters

   The test comes as tensions between France and Russia are high, with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and rising concerns about European security. France's nuclear program is part of its strategic defense policy, aimed at maintaining a credible deterrent against potential threats. The M51.3 missile is a key component of France's nuclear arsenal, providing a submarine-launched capability.

   What is confirmed

   • France conducted the first test launch of its M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile.
   • The missile was launched off the coast of Brittany.
   • The test was part of an operation to certify the nuclear-submarine Le Vigilant's ability to deploy the weapon.
   • The M51.3 missile was not equipped with a nuclear warhead during the test.
   • The test aims to reinforce France's nuclear deterrent amid rising tensions with Russia.

   What to watch next

   • Russia's response to France's missile test
   • Future tests or deployments of the M51.3 missile
   • Impact on European security and NATO relations
   Sources used for this update (19)

   1. Reuters — France tests upgraded nuclear missile against backdrop of Russia tensions
   2. Yahoo — France Tests New Nuclear-Capable Weapon
   3. militarnyi.com — France Prepares First M51.3 Ballistic Missile Launch in Three Years
   4. Le Monde.fr — France completes successful test of new nuclear-capable missile
   5. navalnews.com — French Navy Conducts Acceptance Firing of M51.3 missile From Le Vigilant SSBN
   6. The Times of India — 'Clear message has been sent': France test fires upgraded nuclear missile amid Russia tensions
   7. Yahoo — France fires upgraded nuclear-capable missile from submarine for first time
   8. France 24 — Macron observes test of new nuclear-capable missile without warhead
   9. Interesting Engineering — France's M51.3 nuclear-capable missile makes first submarine launch
   10. Euronews.com — France test-fires new nuclear-capable missile from submarine for first time
   11. Reuters — Kremlin says France's test nuclear launch is part of 'dead end' anti-Russia strategy
   12. The Independent — Ukraine war live: Kremlin responds to France testing upgraded nuclear weapon
   confidence 85%