France’s Third‑Generation M51.3 Submarine‑Launched Ballistic Missile Enters Service
The Ministry of the Armed Forces of France has announced the official commissioning into service of the third version of the strategic submarine-launched ballistic missile M51.3 for Le Triomphant‑class nuclear submarines, marking an important milestone in the modernization of France’s sea-based nuclear deterrent.
The missile is equipped with an upgraded oceanic nuclear warhead TNO-2, and features improved range, accuracy, and enhanced capability to penetrate enemy missile-defense systems that improves the reliability of sea-based component of nuclear deterrence.
Technical details remain classified. However, open sources report approximate parameters: length of 12 meters, diameter of 2.3 meters, launch mass of 50 tones, and intercontinental flight range between 8,000 and 10,000 km.
It is worth noting that the French M51 missile is a three-stage solid-fuel submarine-launched ballistic missile that has formed the backbone of France’s sea-based nuclear deterrent since 2010. Currently, there are three M51 variants: M51.1 (with TN-75 warheads), M51.2 (with TNO warheads), and the current M51.3, which has completed the full cycle of qualification testing and was accepted into service in 2025.