Missile m45

The M45 missile is a French strategic ballistic missile used by the nuclear ballistic missile submarines of the French Strategic Oceanic Force.

It entered service in October 1996 and its deployment ended in 1999. Designed as an evolution of the M4, it was developed by Aérospatiale, which later became EADS Astrium Space Transportation.

The M45 differs from its predecessor by an improved range, from 4000 km to 6000 km, as well as improvements in its upper section, including increased precision and improved penetration capabilities.

It is equipped with the 110-kiloton TN 75 stealth warhead, which can carry up to six units.

Commissioned in the spring of 1997 on the Triomphant class submarines and on the first generation SSBN "L'Inflexible", it was gradually replaced by the M51 missile from 2010.