AI-generated summary
France has maintained a nuclear deterrent based on nuclear-powered submarines, and the M51.3 is an improved version of the existing M51 and is known to have improved range and accuracy. This test launch is part of France's nuclear modernization efforts.
(Seoul = Yonhap News) France successfully test-fired the latest submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) 'M51.3' from a nuclear-powered submarine for the first time.
According to Reuters and the French Ministry of Defense, the nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine 'Le Vigiland' test-launched the M51.3 off the coast of Brittany, western France, on the 6th (local time).
The missile soared over the sea and rose rapidly, emitting huge flames and white smoke.
The nuclear warhead was not loaded and was dropped in a pre-determined area in the North Atlantic. The crash site was hundreds of kilometers from the nearest coast.
French President Emmanuel Macron watched the launch directly from the multipurpose frigate ‘Auvergne’ in the nearby sea.
President Macron said, “Today we are stronger,” and “the message has been delivered loud and clear where it is needed.”
Although no specific country was officially named, it is interpreted as a demonstration of force aimed at Russia, which has recently raised the level of nuclear threats.
For more details, please watch the video.
Produced by: Jeon Seok-woo, Maeng Se-eun
Video: AFP ·
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
France plans to field the M51.3 within the next few years.
Likely · Within years

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