France is preparing a new generation of its strategic nuclear deterrent. According to BFMTV, ArianeGroup has been awarded a contract by the General Directorate for Armaments (DGA) to design and produce the M51.4 ballistic missile, an upgraded version of the weapon that has been in service since 2010.

The M51 is deployed by the Strategic Oceanic Forces, the naval component of France’s nuclear triad, which maintains continuous patrols at sea. Current models are installed on four Triomphant-class submarines, each carrying 16 missiles. These vessels will host the future M51.4, and the missile will also equip the new generation of strategic submarines under construction since 2024 by Naval Group.

The updated missile will weigh more than 50 tons and measure roughly 12 meters in length. Program officials described it as a sea-to-land system capable of reaching altitudes above 2,000 kilometers and speeds of up to 20,000 kilometers per hour — about Mach 20 — upon reentry. Other specifications remain undisclosed.

The M51 represents the fifth generation of French ballistic missiles, having replaced the M45 in 2010. Today’s fleet carries the M51.2, which is slated to give way to the M51.3 before the newly commissioned M51.4 becomes operational.