French M51 Procurement Contract Signed

The French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) has awarded a procurement contract to EADS Space Transportation for the production and delivery of M51 next-generation submarine launched ballistic missile (SLBM). M51s will be integrated into Le Triomphant-class submarines beginning in 2010.

It is the first procurement for M51 missiles awarded to EADS and is valued at 3 billion Euro ($4 billion). M51 will supersede existing M45s providing increased accuracy and a greater payload. This decision has been taken following successfully testing carried out in 2004 and further development on the propulsion system as well as overall positive assessment on the M51 at this point.

The contract is expected to last 10 years. EADS along with G2P consortium, a joint venture Snecma Propulsion Solide et SNPE Matériaux Energétiques, will be responsible for the M51 manufacturing. G2P activities will focus on the missile propulsion system.

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