France unveils latest nuclear-capable supersonic cruise missile PHOTO / VIDEO

15 November 2025 10:29

French authorities have for the first time provided clear images and details of the latest version of their nuclear-armed cruise missile, the Air-Sol Moyenne Portée ASMPA-R (ASMPA-Renove), according to a report by Joseph Trevithick.

The missile, ramjet-powered and capable of supersonic speeds, is now operational with both the French Air and Space Force and the French Navy, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The French Navy’s Rafale M fighters, part of the Force Aeronavale Nucleaire (FANU), conducted a test launch of the ASMPA-R earlier this week under Operation Diomede. The exercise simulated a nuclear strike flight without a live warhead. The missile officially joined the naval arsenal on November 10, following its introduction to the Air Force’s Strategic Air Forces in 2023.

Externally, the ASMPA-R closely resembles its predecessor, the ASMP-A, but features minor tail-fin differences. The R variant has an extended range of 372 miles (600 km), up from 310 miles (500 km) for the ASMP-A, while both reach speeds of Mach 3. The missile reportedly carries the TNA nuclear warhead, with a dial-a-yield capability of 100–300 kilotons, though some sources suggest potential modernisation of the warhead.

ASMP-series missiles form the aerial leg of France’s nuclear dyad, complementing the sea-based M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missiles. The ASMPA-R enables French Rafales to strike from standoff distances while maintaining the survivability of launch platforms.

France is also developing a fourth-generation air-launched nuclear cruise missile, ASN4G, expected to be hypersonic and enter service by 2035. Recent policy shifts have included the potential forward-deployment of nuclear-capable Rafales in Germany and closer coordination of France’s nuclear forces with the United Kingdom.

The introduction of ASMPA-R marks a continuation of France’s broader nuclear modernisation programme, ensuring both the Air and Naval components of its deterrent maintain advanced capabilities amid evolving NATO and global security dynamics.

French authorities’ release of clear images and operational confirmation underscores the country’s intent to maintain a credible and modern nuclear strike capability.