France orders production of a new version of the M51 missile Wojciech Kaczanowski 16.09.2025 09:45 DrukujPDFPhoto. Ariane Group FacebookTwitterLinkedInCopy linkSend email ArianeGroup has been awarded a contract to design and produce the fourth version of the M51 ballistic missile for the France’s Strategic Oceanic Force. The fourth version of the M51 ballistic missile (M51.4) is expected to feature increased range and precision, strengthening France’s nuclear deterrent. ArianeGroup serves as the prime contractor for the M51 missile for the French Strategic Oceanic Forces. The M51 is a three-stage ballistic missile (SLBM) used by French Le Triomphant-class submarines (Le Triomphant, Le Téméraire, Le Vigilant, and Le Terrible).