Missile M-45

The M45 is a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) that served as a component of the French naval nuclear deterrent. Derived from the M4, the system was originally considered for a land-based ICBM role before the program was transitioned to an exclusively naval deployment in 1996. It entered service that same year and remained operational until 2016.

The missile is a three-stage solid-fuel system utilizing an inertial guidance system coupled with computer payload control. Compared to the preceding M4, the M45 was designed with increased accuracy and penetration capabilities. The payload consists of six Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicles (MIRVs), each armed with a TN-75 thermonuclear warhead. Each warhead has a yield of 110 kt.

The French Navy was the sole operator of the M45, deploying the missile on Triomphant-class submarines within the Force océanique stratégique. While a significant number of units were produced during the program's lifespan, only a portion were utilized for operational and testing purposes. Notable test events include a March 1986 flight and a June 2004 launch from the submarine Vigilant in the southern Brittany region, which struck a target near French Guiana. The M45 was phased out in favor of the M51 missile, with the final units removed from service in 2016.