Successful M51.3 missile in-flight qualification test
Press release
20.11.2023
November 18, 2023, ArianeGroup and the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) have successfully completed the first in-flight test of a M51.3 missile.
The M51 is a strategic sea–land ballistic missile designed to be launched from French ballistic submarines. It is the key component of the French oceanic nuclear deterrent force.
This qualification flight, a crucial milestone in the incremental evolution approach of the M51.3 missile, proves its successful development.
ArianeGroup is prime contractor for the M51 missile system on behalf of DGA and is the only company in Europe with the expertise to design, develop and build these strategic missiles. ArianeGroup is responsible for the entire lifecycle of the M51.
© DGA EM