FOCUS – France tests new nuclear-capable missile for the first time

France today tested for the first time from a submarine the new ballistic missile “M51.3”, capable of carrying nuclear warheads, according to Euronews. President Emmanuel Macron described the test as important evidence of the credibility of France’s nuclear deterrent.

The missile was launched from the nuclear-powered submarine “Le Vigilant”, off the coast of Brittany.

The missile carried no warhead and ended up in the North Atlantic Ocean, hundreds of kilometres from any coastline.

The French Ministry of Defence said the test was planned and carried out in accordance with France’s international obligations.

President Macron followed the missile launch from the military vessel “Auvergne” and also published a video of the test on the X network.

In a message, the French president wrote that to be free one must be able to frighten the adversary, and that for this one must be powerful.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the “M51.3” missile is part of France’s efforts to maintain in the long term the operational capability and credibility of its nuclear forces.

The modernisation is seen as particularly important at a time when the international security environment has deteriorated.

The test takes place at a time when France and other European countries are increasingly concerned about threats linked to Russia.

President Macron has warned of an increase in Russian aggression and threats against European countries, including hybrid attacks that the West attributes to Moscow.

In September, Macron declared that these actions would not go unanswered.

According to him, the change in the security situation in Europe requires strengthening defence and deterrence capacities.

France is the European Union’s only nuclear power. It possesses a nuclear force based mainly on strategic submarines and fighter aircraft.

This makes the French arsenal an important element of European security.

Earlier this year, Macron proposed that European partners be included in a more advanced framework of French deterrence.

The idea aims to strengthen Europe’s security in the face of new threats, while France retains control over the decision to use its nuclear weapons.