France claims successful testing of advanced ASMPA nuke missile

By Shweta Desai

PARIS (AA) - The French Defense Ministry on Thursday announced that the successful testing of a modern version of the nuclear-capable ASMPA missile.

The medium-range air-to-surface missile, developed by MBDA missile systems, was fired from a Rafale jet on Wednesday from Air Force Base 120 in Cazaux, southwestern France, according to a ministry statement. The first test firing of the ASMPA was carried out in December 2020.

The latest qualification firing marks start of the production phase for the renovated ASMPA missile before its potential induction in the Strategic Air Force and Naval Air Force, the statement noted.

The ASMPA is the advanced version of Air-Sol Moyenne Portee (ASMP) and can be equipped on nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, naval air carrier Dassault-Breguet Super Etendard, Dassault Mirage 2000N, and Rafale fighter aircraft.

France is the only country in the EU with nuclear arms capabilities. The ASMPA supersonic cruise missile that carries a nuclear payload can be launched only upon the president's assent if it is deemed necessary "at the level of strict sufficiency required by the international environment," added the Defense Ministry.

The ASMPA is a strategic and ultimate deterrent weapon launched before the final employment of strategic nuclear weapons. The ASMPA was put into service in 2009 and the French Air Force has 54 such missiles.