M51.3 SLBM
Type: Ballistic Missile (ICBM)
Domain: sea
Country of Origin: France
Manufacturer: Safran
Overview
Third evolution of France's M51 submarine-launched ballistic missile, the cornerstone of the Force de Dissuasion nucléaire. The M51.3 features an enhanced post-boost vehicle with improved penetration aids and countermeasures to defeat advanced ballistic missile defense systems. Three-stage solid-propellant rocket with a range exceeding 10,000 km carrying multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs) with TNA (Tête Nucléaire Aéroportée) oceanic thermonuclear warheads. Length of 12 m, weight of 56 tonnes. Launched from Le Triomphant-class SSBNs with 16 missiles per boat. The M51.3 entered service progressively from 2025, maintaining the credibility of French nuclear deterrence through the 2030s.
Technical Specifications
| CEP | <200 m |
|---|---|
| Type | Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM) |
| Range | 10,000+ km |
| Length | 12 m |
| Stages | 3 solid-fuel |
| Weight | 56,000 kg |
| Warhead | Up to 6-10 TN-75/TNO MIRVed thermonuclear warheads |
| Diameter | 2.35 m |
| Launch Platform | Le Triomphant class SSBN |
Operators
- France
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