France has completed a second evaluation firing of its upgraded ASMPA-R air-launched nuclear missile, advancing one of the central modernization efforts of its strategic forces and validating the system under realistic conditions.
The test took place on November 13, 2025, when a French Navy Rafale M launched an unarmed ASMPA-R at the end of a long-range mission profile intended to simulate a nuclear strike.
Conducted over French territory as part of Operation Diomede, the mission reproduced air-to-air and ground-to-air threats to evaluate the readiness of the Force aéronavale nucléaire.
According to the French defense procurement agency (DGA), the exercise confirmed the level of expertise maintained by the naval crews responsible for the nuclear strike role.
Tracking the Rafale and missile across the Atlantic coast
DGA Essais de missiles coordinated the evaluation, ensuring range safety and tracking the entire mission. Monitoring assets along the Atlantic Coast in Biscarrosse, Hourtin, and Quimper followed the Rafale M and missile in combined flight before observing the ASMPA-R’s free flight after separation. These ranges are frequently used for France’s nuclear readiness activities, including the recurring Operation Poker missions flown by the French Strategic Air Forces.
Integration across both branches of the airborne deterrent
The ASMPA-R upgrade program is one of the major modernization priorities of France’s 2024-2030 military spending plan. The renovation improves range, survivability and penetration performance to ensure the airborne nuclear component remains credible against evolving air defense systems. The program extends the missile’s service life until the arrival of the ASN4G, a next-generation air-launched nuclear missile expected around 2035.
This second evaluation firing follows the first ASMPA-R test in May 2024, carried out by a Rafale B from the French Strategic Air Forces during Operation Durandal. With the latest shot performed by the French Navy, the renovated missile has now been validated within both branches of France’s airborne nuclear forces.
France’s nuclear stance relies on its airborne component, shared by the French Air and Space Force and the Navy, as well as its fleet of ballistic missile submarines. Regular long-range raids, refueling operations, and missile evaluation shots are conducted to demonstrate readiness and maintain the credibility of the deterrent.
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