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French Nuclear Forces
The French maintain a deterrent of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). France has in operation four SSBNs of three classes: two of the new Triomphant-class subs, one L'Inflexible-class sub, and one Redoubtable-class sub (Le Foudroyant). and airborne weapons.
SLBMs
| Name | SSBNs |
Warhead x yield
(kilotons) |
Total
warheads |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSBS M4A/B | 48 | 6 x 150 | 288 |
| MSBS M45 | 16 | 6 x 100 | 96 |
| Total | 64 | 384 |
Bombers
| Name | Launchers |
Warhead x yield
(kilotons) |
Total
warheads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mirage 2000N/ASMP | 45 | 1 x 300 bomb | 45 |
| Super Etendard/ASMP | 24 | 1 x 300 bomb | 20 |
| Total | 69 | 65 |
Information compiled by Robert S. Norris and William M. Arkin of the Natural Resources Defense Council. Inquiries should be directed to:
NRDC, 1200 New York Avenue, N.W., Suite 400, Washington, D.C., 20005 (v) 202-289-6868.
Source: Bulletin of Atomic Scientists and NRDC
