The French Defence Procurement and Technology Agency (DGA) has contracted ArianeGroup to design and manufacture the M51.4, the fourth version of the submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) M51.
The contract marks the initiation of design and the subsequent production of the missile.
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With extended range and enhanced precision and penetration capabilities, the M51.4 is expected to strengthen France’s oceanic nuclear deterrent in light of emerging threats.
According to ArianeGroup, this programme will drive transformation by integrating new technologies and methodologies to achieve specific technical and economic goals.
ArianeGroup defence programmes director Vincent Pery said: “This contract coincides with the entry into service of the M51.3, the missile’s latest version, and the acceleration in production at ArianeGroup in line with the agreed schedule.
“On behalf of ArianeGroup and all the teams, I would like to thank DGA for its renewed confidence in our highly strategic expertise and capabilities, which are vital to France’s Strategic Oceanic Force (FOST).”
ArianeGroup, a contractor for FOST, oversees the entire life cycle of the M51 strategic missile programme.
This includes design, manufacturing, maintenance, operational support, and decommissioning.
The M51 features a solid-propellant propulsion system with a three-stage launcher, weighing over 50 tonnes and measuring 12m in length.
Each of France’s SSBNs is equipped with 16 missiles that can deliver their payload over intercontinental distances.
When launched from a submerged submarine, the M51 rises through the atmosphere into space, achieving altitudes exceeding 2,000km before re-entering at speeds of 20,000km/h, according to information from ArianeGroup’s website.
In 2021, DGA successfully tested an M51 strategic ballistic missile at its Landes missile testing facility.
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