France conducts first launch of new M51.3 nuclear-capable missile from submarine
France fired its newly developed M51.3 ballistic missile from the submarine Le Vigilant, demonstrating its nuclear deterrent; no warhead was aboard.
France carried out its inaugural test of the M51.3 missile, a nuclear-capable ballistic system, by launching it from the nuclear-powered submarine Le Vigilant in the waters off Brittany. President Emmanuel Macron watched the launch from the accompanying warship Auvergne and later posted a video, emphasizing that freedom requires power and fear. The missile, which did not carry a warhead, traveled to the North Atlantic and splashed down hundreds of kilometres from any coast.
The French defence ministry confirmed the test adhered to the nation’s international commitments. The demonstration follows Macron’s recent warnings about escalating Russian aggression and hybrid attacks targeting European states. By showcasing the new missile, France aims to reinforce the credibility and long-term viability of its nuclear deterrent, the only one in the European Union.
Why it matters
It signals France’s commitment to maintain a credible nuclear deterrent amid heightened security tensions in Europe.
How the sides frame it
HIGH AGREEMENTAll camps report the same basic facts of the test, but left-leaning coverage frames it as a strategic signal against Russian aggression and mentions European security cooperation, centrist coverage stresses the demonstration of deterrent credibility and the slogan “freedom requires power and fear,” while right-leaning coverage presents it as a factual reaffirmation of the nuclear deterrent amid Russia tensions.
LEFT
Frames the test as a clear signal of strength in response to Russian hybrid aggression and highlights European security cooperation.
CENTER
Portrays the launch as a credibility-boosting demonstration of France’s nuclear deterrent, linking it to the idea that “freedom requires power and fear.”
RIGHT
Presents the test as a factual reaffirmation of France’s nuclear deterrent capability, emphasizing compliance with international obligations amid heightened Russian tensions.
The left emphasises
- rising European tensions
- hybrid attacks attributed to Moscow
- signal of strength
The right emphasises
- underscoring its nuclear deterrent amid heightened tensions with Russia
- without a nuclear warhead
- strict compliance with international obligations
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