France has successfully tested the M51.3 long-range ballistic missile, according to Reuters. This test has increased the country’s capabilities, providing a response to the French intermediate-range missile deployment, as reported by the Ministry of Defense. The test was conducted from a French submarine base located in Biscarrosse, situated in southwestern France. The missile landed in the North Atlantic Ocean, several hundred kilometers from the coastline. The statement released by the Ministry did not provide further details on the exact location.

This successful test confirmed the operational capability of the M51.3 missile. The Ministry of Defense believes that this missile will play a crucial role in maintaining French national deterrence for decades to come. These efforts to enhance submarine launched ballistic missile capabilities are part of the ongoing development in this field. The French government views this as integral to their overall national defense strategy.

The M51.3 missile is an improved version of the original M51. It is designed to be fired from French submarines and is an important component of the country’s national deterrent strategy. It is expected that the upgraded M51.3 missile will be put into service by 2025.

The development of the M51.3 missile was undertaken by ArianeGroup, a joint venture between Airbus and the French defense company, Safran. ArianeGroup is responsible for the production of the missile. This partnership brings together the expertise and resources of both companies to ensure the successful development and deployment of the M51.3 missile.

The first experimental launch of the M51 took place back in 2006, where it was tested at a dedicated range. Following this, the first test launch from a submarine was conducted in 2010. These initial tests laid the foundation for the subsequent development and advancement of the M51 series of missiles.