Overview
- The Defense Ministry said Tuesday that France carried out the first test launch of the upgraded M51.3 from the nuclear submarine Le Vigilant off the coast of Brittany without a nuclear warhead.
- President Emmanuel Macron watched the launch and described it as a clear signal, saying in a posted video that "today we are stronger."
- Officials said the trial primarily checked the submarine's operational readiness after extensive maintenance and confirmed the missile's performance.
- Authorities emphasized the launch complied with international obligations and framed it against recent tensions with Russia, including Russian remarks about Kaliningrad and NATO statements denying any threat to Russia.
- The test follows Macron's March plan to expand France's nuclear forces and offer closer deterrence ties with European partners and highlights France's role as a mid‑level nuclear power with roughly 290 warheads.