France is preparing to test the intercontinental missile M51.3 from the submarine "Le Vigilant"
- The first launch of M51.3 in three years is scheduled from 'Le Vigilant'
- The missile will fly about 4700 km without a nuclear warhead
- The maintenance of the submarine was completed in the fall of 2023
- M51.3 is ready for deployment in October 2025
France is preparing to test a new version of the intercontinental ballistic missile M51.3, which is planned to be launched from the nuclear submarine 'Le Vigilant'. This will be the first launch of this type in the last three years, according to the French publication Ouest-France.
According to strategic weapons analyst Étienne Marquiez, during the test, the missile is expected to fly approximately 4700 km, although this is not its maximum range. The launch is planned without a nuclear warhead, and the test area is located off the coast of the Finistère department, where navigation restrictions have already been imposed until October 21.
Preparatory work
Preparation for the test began after the completion of extensive maintenance on the submarine 'Le Vigilant'. The work, which started in the fall of 2023 at the Île-Long base, covered the reactor, armament, and other systems. After repairs are completed, strategic submarines undergo a series of sea trials, and the successful launch of M51.3 is expected to confirm their combat readiness.
A similar launch was carried out in April 2023 by the submarine 'Le Terrible' after its maintenance, demonstrating the consistency of preparatory measures in the French submarine fleet.
Officially, M51.3 achieved operational readiness in October 2025. The new modification is noted for its increased range, accuracy, and ability to overcome missile defense. Additionally, it can be equipped with a new nuclear warhead TNO-2.
The first qualification launch of the M51.3 was conducted in November 2023 from the ground testing complex in Biscarrosse. At that time, the rocket launched without a nuclear warhead towards the Atlantic Ocean.
The technical data of the new rocket remains partially confidential; however, from previous versions of the M51, it is known that their range was estimated at 8–10,000 km, and the maximum speed was up to 25 Mach. In size, the M51.3 likely retains a length of about 12 m, a diameter of 2.3 m, and a weight of approximately 52 tons. Navigation is carried out, among other things, using the Galileo satellite system.
In the future, the M51.3 is planned to be installed on new strategic submarines of the SNLE 3G class, which will gradually replace the current Le Triomphant-class submarines after 2035. The development and production of the M51 family of missiles is handled by the French company Ariane Group.
French President Emmanuel Macron has repeatedly emphasized the need to create a European arms system capable of competing with the Russian "Oreshnik." According to him, France is already within the reach of these Russian missiles, which underscores the importance of developing its own strategic capabilities.
Source: UNIAN
