M4 (missile)
| M4 SLBM | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Type | SLBM |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1985 |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | EADS SPACE Transportation |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 36,000 kg (79,000 lb) |
| Length | 11.5 m (38 ft) |
| Diameter | 1.93 m (6 ft 4 in) |
| Warhead | 6 × TN 71 MIRV, with penetration aids |
| Blast yield | 6 × 150 kt (630 TJ) |
| Engine | Three stage Solid-fuel rocket |
Operational range | 5,000 km (3,100 mi) |
Guidance system | Inertial |
Launch platform | Redoutable-class submarines |
The M4 was a French submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) deployed on the nuclear Redoutable-class submarines (except the Redoutable herself, which was not refitted).[1]
They entered service on 1 May 1985. They were the first French MIRV-capable nuclear missiles, with six 150 kilotonne warheads.[1]
They were replaced by the improved M45 SLBM missile which was in service aboard the Triomphant-class submarine.[1]
Operators
References
- ^ a b c "M-4 / M-45 - France Nuclear Forces". Federation of American Scientists. 2014. Retrieved 5 November 2014.