NewsFrench military successfully tests new nuclear-capable missile

French military successfully tests new nuclear-capable missile

The French have tested a new nuclear missile
The French have tested a new nuclear missile
Images source: © East News | DIDIER LAURAS
Radosław Opas

24 May 2024 06:57

The French army conducted a test of a new version of the ASMPA-R missile, capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on Wednesday evening. The rocket, which did not carry any warhead, was launched by a Rafale fighter jet.

Minister Lecornu reported that the Strategic Air Force fighter jet carried out the test during a flight "over French territory." The head of the French defence department added in a statement that this test had been planned for a long time.

France aims to deter enemies

This statement indicates that the missile modernization program conducted by the General Directorate of Armament (DGA) has strengthened its parameters. The test aligns with the objectives set out in the military spending planning law (LPM) for 2024-30.

The AFP agency reminds us that the LPM law defined nuclear deterrence as the basis of the country's defence, allocating 13 percent of military spending for its modernization and maintenance.

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