France has carried out a major missile test from one of its nuclear-powered submarines, with President Emmanuel Macron watching the operation.
France successfully test-fired its new M51.3 nuclear-capable ballistic missile for the first time from a nuclear-powered submarine, Le Vigilant, off the coast of Brittany.
The unarmed missile landed safely in the North Atlantic, far from any coastline, with President Emmanuel Macron observing the launch from the French warship Auvergne.
Sharing video footage of the test, Macron emphasized that the successful launch reinforces the credibility and long-term reliability of France’s nuclear deterrent.
He added that remaining powerful is essential to preserving national freedom.
The French Ministry of Defence noted that the test was conducted without a warhead and in full compliance with international commitments, showcasing the strength of France’s defense technology.
The test comes amid rising concerns over Russian aggression and hybrid threats in Europe.
As the European Union’s sole nuclear power, France has recently proposed extending its nuclear deterrence framework to include its European partners to enhance regional security