France has put a new nuclear missile with a range of up to 10,000 km on combat duty
France has officially put into service the modernized M51.3 ballistic missile, equipped with a TNO-2 nuclear warhead. It has a range of up to 10,000 kilometers and will become the basis of the naval component of nuclear forces deployed on “Le Triomphant”-class submarines. reports Actu.fr.
These missiles will be installed on French nuclear submarines with ballistic missiles (SNLE). The French Ministry of Defense reported that a new version of the M51.3 missile has already entered service and will become a key element of the modernization program for the French nuclear deterrent forces.
“The third version of the M51 strategic submarine-launched ballistic missile (M51.3) has entered service, which is an important step in the modernization of the oceanic component of the French nuclear deterrent,” — the country’s Defense Ministry noted.
The agency explained that the M51 strategic submarine-launched ballistic missile is an intercontinental missile with a separate nuclear warhead. 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 latest version, the M51.3, is equipped with new TNO-2 nuclear warheads. Its entry into service was the final stage of a 12-year modernization program. According to the French military, the missile has an increased range, increased accuracy and stronger armor penetration.
The M51.3 will be deployed on four French ballistic missile submarines (SNLE), including the “Le Triomphant”. At least one of the boats will be constantly at sea to ensure that France can deliver a nuclear strike even in the event of an attack.
The M51.3 was developed jointly by the Defense Procurement Agency (DGA), the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the French Navy, the Atomic and Alternative Energy Commission (CEA) and ArianeGroup.
In addition, France has already begun a new phase of modernization – M51.4. The contract for its development was awarded to ArianeGroup in August. The new missile has already been installed on board a nuclear submarine and is undergoing training tests.
