"Today We Are Stronger": France Test Fires Nuclear-Capable Missile
France successfully conducted a test launch of its M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile to demonstrate its nuclear deterrent capabilities. President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the strength of the French arsenal amid ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Russia.
Why it matters
The test serves as a strategic signal of European defense readiness in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and broader NATO-Russia tensions.
France's defence ministry said on Tuesday it had conducted the first test launch of its latest-generation M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile, underscoring its nuclear deterrent amid heightened tensions with Russia.The M51.3 missile, which was not equipped with a nuclear warhead, was launched off the coast of Brittany as part of an operation to certify the nuclear-submarine Le Vigilant's ability to deploy the weapon following a major maintenance overhaul, the ministry said in a statement.It said the launch was conducted without a payload and in strict compliance with international obligations.While the announcement made no mention of Russia, the test comes after President Vladimir Putin warned the West last week not to escalate a standoff over Ukraine by threatening the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, which is wedged between EU members Poland and Lithuania and which Moscow has made clear it would defend with nuclear weapons if necessary.Macron Hails Clear MessageNATO has said none…
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