France has marked a significant milestone in the modernisation of its nuclear deterrent with the successful maiden submarine launch of the upgraded M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM). On 6 October 2026, the nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine ‘Le Vigilant’ fired an unarmed M51.3 off the coast of Finistère in Brittany as part of Operation SMERTRIOS.
Keywords: M51.3 SLBM, French nuclear deterrence, Le Vigilant submarine, submarine-launched ballistic missile, Operation SMERTRIOS, France strategic modernisation
The acceptance test validated the submarine’s strategic weapon system following its periodic major overhaul (IPER). The missile, carrying no nuclear warhead or payload, was tracked throughout its flight by assets of the Direction générale de l’armement (DGA), including the trials ship ‘Monge’, before impacting in the North Atlantic several hundred kilometres from any coastline. French authorities confirmed the firing was conducted in full compliance with international obligations.
President Emmanuel Macron observed the launch from the multi-mission frigate ‘Auvergne’. In a statement, he described the event as a demonstration of France’s technical excellence and the enduring credibility of its independent nuclear deterrent, noting that very few nations possess such advanced capabilities. He congratulated the DGA, the Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), Ariane Group, Naval Group and the French Navy.
The M51.3, the third iteration of the M51 family developed by Ariane Group, entered operational service on October 24, 2025. Independent estimates place its range at approximately 9,000 to 10,000 kilometres, with improved accuracy, penetration capabilities against evolving missile defences, and compatibility with the new TNO-2 oceanic nuclear warheads. Each of France’s four Triomphant-class SSBNs can carry 16 such missiles.
This successful firing clears the way for ‘Le Vigilant’ to rejoin the continuous at-sea deterrent patrol cycle. It forms part of a broader modernisation effort that includes sustained increases in the defence budget since 2017, development of the next-generation SNLE 3G submarines, and work on future airborne hypersonic systems. The test reaffirms France’s status as one of the few European nations maintaining a fully sovereign sea-based nuclear delivery capability.
Well, this is about what France is doing to defend itself from external threats and it seems that France is in a position such that it is not only able to defend its boundaries but it can also attack any country, which becomes a threat for France or its allies. But what about the extreme violent conditions in almost every part of this country, where those who had entered France as refugees from Africa and Arabian peninsula are now openly attacking French police and its people along with destroying the public property there. France is paying for its most liberal about humanity, Islamic fundamentalism, demographic change and so on. Still, the French authorities will have to realise the situation of France and wipe out all illegal immigrants from the country, if it really has any worry for its citizens.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.
