Macron hails France’s nuclear deterrent after first M51.3 missile test

French President Emmanuel Macron witnessed the inaugural launch of the new M51.3 ballistic missile from the nuclear submarine Le Vigilant, observing from the navy frigate Auvergne.

During the launch, Macron stated: "Our nuclear deterrent will continue to protect us, and to be feared, you must be strong."

On Tuesday morning, France conducted its first test launch of the third-generation M51 strategic ballistic missile from a submarine off the country's western coast, in a trial overseen by President Macron.

View the post on X

Macron followed the launch from a French Navy frigate, according to the Élysée Palace. The Ministry of Defense confirmed the missile was the third version of the sea-launched M51, which entered service a year ago.

The Defense Ministry clarified that the missile was launched without a nuclear warhead and landed in the North Atlantic, hundreds of kilometers from any coastline.