France successfully conducts the second evaluation test of the ASMPA-R nuclear missile with the Rafale Navy
France has taken another important step in modernizing its nuclear deterrent. The improved and updated medium-range air-to-surface missile ASMPA-R successfully completed its second evaluation shot on November 13, 2025, the Direction générale de l’armement (DGA) announced.
The test was carried out by the Marine Nationale in collaboration with the DGA and represents a decisive phase in the modernization program of the French strategic armament.
The test took place during Operation Diomede, in which a Rafale Marine conducted a flight representative of a nuclear strike mission. Without a nuclear payload, the ASMPA-R rocket was launched at the end of the mission. The flight, carried out over French territory under realistic opposition conditions, demonstrates the high level of preparedness and expertise of the French Nuclear Naval Air Force (Fanu).
According to the DGA, the launch took place at the DGA Essais de Missiles center, which is responsible for the complete safety of the operation. The entire trajectory of the Rafale Marine/ASMPA-R system and then the autonomous flight of the missile were followed by installations in Biscarrosse (Landes), Hourtin (Gironde) and Quimper (Finistère).
The ASMPA modernization program, implemented within the framework of the French Military Programming Law (LPM 2024-2030), aims to increase the intrinsic capabilities of the missile and ensure the credibility of the air-borne nuclear component in the face of evolving enemy defenses. This modernization will guarantee the effectiveness of the weapon until the arrival of the future fourth generation air-to-surface nuclear missile ASN4G, scheduled for 2035.
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Source and images: Direction générale de l’armement, X @DGA. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editors.
