France has launched the production of a new M51.4 nuclear missile — further, more precisely, invulnerable

What's new in M51.4 — Range, accuracy, Deception PRO

France has officially launched mass production of the upgraded M51.4 strategic missile. This is not just an upgrade, it is the next step in the development of its independent nuclear deterrent. The missile was created by ArianeGroup and is designed to arm future third—generation nuclear submarines, the SNLE-3G.

The main improvements are increased range, increased accuracy of hitting and advanced means of overcoming missile defense systems (ABM). It is expected that the M51.4 will be able to fly confidently beyond 9,000 km and at the same time accurately hit targets, even if modern radars and interceptors are deployed around them.

ArianeGroup and €7.5 billion for strategic deterrence

The development and production of the M51.4 is part of a large—scale program estimated at 7.5 billion euros. All engineering work is carried out by ArianeGroup, a key player in the French space and defense industries. This is not only a matter of technology, but also of sovereignty: France does everything on its own, without dependence on other countries.

Such investments show that the nuclear shield remains an absolute priority for Paris.

For new third generation submarines

The M51.4 will be in service with the new SNLE-3G submarines, which will replace the current Le Triomphant-class fleet. These boats will become quieter, more autonomous and more technologically advanced. And together with the M51.4, they will provide France with the opportunity to keep warheads in the ocean — always ready, always invulnerable.

A submarine with such missiles can spend years on covert patrol, remaining the main trump card in strategic calculations.

Why France is not lagging behind in the nuclear technology race

While other countries are also modernizing their arsenals, France is consistently following its own path. The M51.4 is not a response to a specific threat, but part of a long—term strategy: to be able to inflict "unacceptable damage" on any aggressor, wherever it may be.

It's not about the war. It's about not having a war.

Sources

1. Building-Tech.org — M51.4 ICBM: >11 000 km range, high accuracy, ABM-evasion, SNLE-3G fit, €-billion programme
2. UNIAN.net — France launches M51.4 development, €7.5 bn cost, longer range & improved ABM penetration
3. Armiya.az — M51.3/4 roadmap, MIRV payload and technical specs
4. Integral-Russia.ru — Evolution of French nuclear doctrine and M51 warhead options
5. Flot.com — Production start date for M51.4 announced
6. Overclockers.ru — M51.4 development overview and future prospects
7. ProGuns.ru — Details on the new French intercontinental ballistic missile M51.4
8. Interfax — Official: new-generation SLBMs to arm SSBNs starting late 2025

The US Navy wants to put AI on submarines — now the machines will help commanders make decisions

Not just automation, but a combat assistant

The US Navy is taking a step that has long been talked about in defense circles: they are beginning to integrate artificial intelligence directly into the combat systems of submarines. An information request (RFI) was recently released, which clearly outlines the goal — not just to speed up data processing, but to create a real "combat assistant" for the commander. The machine should not only show you what's going on around you, but also suggest what to do next.

This is no longer the future. This is the beginning of a new era of underwater warfare.

AN/BYG-1 — the brain of American submarines

All this work is built around the AN/BYG-1 system, the central brain of all active American submarines. She is responsible for guidance, weapon control, analysis of data from sonar and electronic systems. The same system is also used on the submarines of the Royal Australian Navy, which makes it key for the entire alliance.

Now the Navy wants not to replace it, but to modernize it — to make it smarter, faster and more adaptable.

What will the three key updates change?

The RFI identifies three main areas:

• Tactical management restructuring — the system will become more flexible, easier to update, and better integrated with new sensors and weapons.
• Payload restructuring — now the boat will be able to control not only torpedoes, but also drones, gliders, mines and other autonomous systems.
• The new Tactical decision—making System (TDA) is the most important. This is an AI that will analyze the situation, identify patterns, assess risks, and offer options to the commander. For example: "There is an enemy boat 15 miles to the north, probably on a quiet course. I recommend changing course by 20 degrees and activating passive mode."

Why boats urgently need AI

Underwater combat is a blind game. One wrong sound, one extra impulse— and you're spotted. The more data there is, the more difficult it is to process it. And the decision time is seconds.

The man does not have time. Even the most experienced commander cannot keep hundreds of parameters in mind: background field noises, the behavior of enemy ships, hydrological conditions, the condition of his own boat.

AI can. He doesn't get tired, nervous, or miss details. He will become the one who "listens" to the ocean 24/7 and at the right moment will say: "Be careful — there's a trap there."

Sources

1. General Dynamics Mission Systems — AN/BYG-1 Submarine Combat System overview
2. FlotProm.ru — deployment & capabilities of AN/BYG-1 on US submarines
3. Wikipedia — AN/BYG-1 system on Columbia-class submarines and others
4. TAdviser — U.S. smart submarine capable of attacking without military orders
5. Wikipedia — IDS submarine types

Germany is developing the first drone to be launched from a submarine

A submarine as a platform for unmanned surface vehicles

Germany is making a breakthrough in the field of marine technology by developing the world's first unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), which can be launched directly from a submarine. This innovation will allow underwater forces to conduct reconnaissance and operations with minimal risk while remaining hidden underwater.

The new generation of USV is being developed as part of a partnership between the German naval company Gabler and the Danish company FLANQ, specializing in marine robotics. The agreement was announced at the DALI Industry Days 2025 conference in Ballerup, Denmark, highlighting the growing integration of European defense contractors in the field of autonomous systems.

Gabler and FLANQ Partnership: technologies of the future

A key feature of the project will be the adaptation of standard submarine torpedo tubes to launch drones. This means that existing submarines will be able to use their regular infrastructure without the need for deep modernization. After launch, the USV will be able to autonomously carry out missions on the surface, leaving the submarine in a safe zone.

FLANQ provides advanced solutions in autonomous control and energy efficiency, while Gabler provides expertise in integrating systems into naval platforms. The joint development is aimed at creating a compact, reliable and scalable solution for a modern fleet.

Silent reconnaissance and strike capabilities

Unmanned vehicles launched from submarines will be able to perform a wide range of tasks, from coastal exploration and navigation monitoring to electronic reconnaissance and, if necessary, precision strikes. Due to their autonomy and low visibility, USVs are ideal for operations in difficult and potentially hostile waters.

A special advantage is the preservation of the submarine's stealth. Instead of surfacing and risking detection, the submarine can remotely launch a drone that will complete the task and transmit the data back.

A breakthrough in a new generation of underwater warfare

The development opens a new chapter in the evolution of underwater warfare. The transformation of torpedo tubes into universal launchers for autonomous systems marks the transition from purely attack platforms to "wombs" controlling a swarm of drones. This approach enhances operational flexibility, expands the area of control and increases the survival of underwater forces.

If the tests are successful, Germany will become one of the first countries in the world to implement such technology in a real combat infrastructure.

Australia controlled a British submarine from 10,000 miles away — a breakthrough within the framework of AUKUS

Imagine: a submarine is moving quietly underwater somewhere off the coast of Great Britain, but it is not controlled in London, but in Australia — 10,000 miles away from the scene. It sounds like the plot of a science fiction movie, but that's exactly what happened in practice.

For the first time, the Royal Navy of Great Britain has demonstrated that its experimental vessel (XV) Excalibur can be fully controlled remotely, and from the other side of the planet. Australian operators successfully operated an unmanned submarine while it was underwater in British territorial waters.

These tests took place in July as part of the large-scale Talisman Sabre 2025 exercises. Specifically, this stage was called the "Maritime Big Play" and became part of the broader AUKUS program, namely its Pillar II direction, which focuses on the development and joint use of advanced defense technologies between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

This level of remote control is a serious step forward. It opens up opportunities for the use of autonomous underwater vehicles in complex and potentially dangerous missions without risk to the crew. Now the car can be where it needs to be, and it can be commanded safely, from anywhere in the world.

The Israeli "Dragoness" went to sea for the first time: the start of testing of a new submarine

 

The new Dolphin II class diesel-electric submarine (SSK) for the Israeli Navy, the future INS Drakon, has put to sea for sea trials for the first time. This important stage took place on July 23, when the boat left the Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS) shipyard in Kiel, Germany.

Drakon has become the third and, as expected, the last boat of this improved class to be built by order of Israel. The initial tests took place in the water area northwest of the Kiel Lighthouse. During these first trips to sea, the engineers and crew focused on testing key systems: the propulsion system and navigation equipment. The successful implementation of these tests is an important step in confirming the seaworthiness and basic functionality of the vessel.

The Dolphin II class submarines built by tkMS are among the most modern and technologically advanced diesel-electric submarines in the world. They are equipped with an air-independent power supply (AIP) system, which allows them to stay underwater much longer than conventional diesel-electric submarines. These boats are considered the cornerstone of Israel's maritime strategy, providing covert patrols and, according to unofficial reports, the ability to carry cruise missiles with nuclear warheads.

The Americans have deployed another nuclear submarine to Hawaii — what does this mean in the game with China?

 

 USS Indiana

The United States is once again strengthening its military presence in the Pacific Ocean: the nuclear submarine USS Indiana has arrived in Hawaii, at the Pearl Harbor-Hickam base — and this is the second such transfer from the east of the country. She used to be based in Groton, Connecticut, but now she will be based right in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.

What is the danger of *Indiana*? This is a Virginia—class attack submarine - fast, quiet and armed with long-range Tomahawk missiles. That is, it can deliver pinpoint strikes to almost any target on land, while remaining invisible underwater. She is now the third submarine of this class assigned to the 7th Squadron of the U.S. Navy in the Indo-Pacific region.

Why is this important? It's simple: The United States is clearly pulling the toughest forces to the southwest of the Pacific Ocean in response to the growth of the Chinese fleet. Each new submarine is not just a ship, but a signal.: "We're here, we're ready." Especially at a time when China is increasingly building a fleet, strengthening its position in the South China Sea and training in case of conflict.

So Indiana is not just a move. This is part of a big strategy: to keep the fleet in shape, the people on the ground and the opponent in suspense.

The North Korean submarine "Hero Kim Kun Ok" with ballistic missiles has not yet been commissioned

North Korea's first diesel-electric submarine with ballistic missiles (SSB), Ship No. 841, named the Hero Kim Kun Ok, is not yet ready for operation. She was launched relatively recently, in September 2023, but satellite images of recent weeks show that her technical conversion and preparation for service are still ongoing.

The submarine was originally built as a Type 003 diesel-electric attack submarine, but in the process of retrofitting it received ballistic missiles, which significantly increases its strategic importance. Despite Pyongyang's ambitious plans, the ship has not yet set sail for a long time and has not conducted full-fledged sea trials, which indicates continuing technical and organizational difficulties.

If the modernization and retrofitting of the submarine are successful, the Hero Kim Kun Ok will become the first combat-ready carrier of submarine-launched ballistic missiles in North Korea. This will seriously expand the country's strategic deterrence capabilities and complicate the tasks for enemy anti-submarine defense systems.

Experts estimate that North Korea's first fully operational ballistic missile submarine may join the fleet within the next 6-12 months if all technical and organizational issues are resolved in a timely manner.

Technical and operational challenges

- The need to refine launchers and ballistic missile launch systems in conditions of limited resources.

- Long-term testing and fine-tuning of the control system and communication systems of the submarine.

- Crew training and working out interaction with coastal structures.

The appearance of a combat-ready ballistic missile submarine in North Korea will pose a new challenge to regional security, especially for South Korea, Japan and the United States. This could lead to increased anti-submarine measures and requirements for missile defense modernization in the region.

The USS Connecticut submarine will return to service in 2026 after a severe accident in the ocean

In 2021, the American nuclear submarine USS Connecticut (SSN-22) from the elite Seawolf class crashed into an unknown seamount somewhere in the Pacific Ocean. As a result of the accident, the boat was seriously damaged, especially in the bow, but, fortunately, the nuclear installation remained intact.  

After the incident, she was sent for long—term repairs, and now it has become known that the submarine is scheduled to return to service in 2026. This is an important task for the US Navy, because they have only three such boats, and each is a real technical masterpiece.

At the time of the accident, the boat was seriously damaged — it literally had no nose cone, and part of the hull was also damaged. All this happened because the crew did not notice the danger on the map — the mountain was not marked on the navigation systems. The result is a hard blow and serious consequences.  

As a result of the investigation, part of the team was fired, including the boat commander, who was simply stripped of his position. It was recognized that not only navigation errors were to blame, but also general negligence in management.

Now specialists are actively working on the restoration of the submarine. The plans are not only to repair, but also to modernize its systems in order to avoid such problems in the future and increase combat capabilities.  

Given that Seawolf is one of the most technologically advanced classes of submarines in the world, its return will greatly strengthen the US position in the submarine component of the fleet. The loss of even one such boat is a serious blow to strategic capabilities.

The incident with the USS Connecticut has become an important lesson for the US Navy. Now they are working hard on discipline, crew training and monitoring the implementation of all procedures. The goal is to prevent this from happening again.

In general, although the boat has suffered a serious blow, its recovery is on schedule, and in a couple of years it will be back on combat duty.

 USS Connecticut (SSN-22)

Germany is close to buying the Israeli BlueWhale unmanned submarine

BlueWhale submarine

Germany and Israel are in the final stages of negotiations on the possible purchase of an autonomous unmanned BlueWhale submarine developed by the Israeli company Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). It is reported that negotiations between the two countries have reached an advanced stage, which may lead to one of the most significant contracts in the field of underwater technologies in recent years.

Germany's interest in BlueWhale arose against the background of growing threats in the underwater area, especially after numerous incidents of damage to underwater communications and increased activity of foreign submarines in the Baltic Sea. The German Navy has long expressed interest in advanced solutions in the field of underwater surveillance and anti-submarine defense.

Last year, the Bundeswehr conducted two weeks of intensive BlueWhale testing as part of its Operational Experiment (OPEX) program. These tests were conducted with the participation of Israeli specialists and the German defense company Atlas Elektronik. The test area was not chosen by chance — the Baltic Sea is considered one of the most difficult waters for underwater navigation and sonar surveillance.

The BlueWhale unmanned submarine is a high-tech AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) type device capable of carrying out long-term missions of exploration, monitoring and detection of other underwater objects without the need for constant control from the surface. Its potential acquisition could be an important step in modernizing Germany's submarine forces and improving the country's maritime security.

UFO stopped the nuclear submarine USS Memphis: the 1989 incident

This story, first published by ufologist Frank Joseph and described in detail in his 2018 book "Military Encounters with Aliens: The Real War of the Worlds," was written by an unnamed witness.

It is reported that the incident occurred on the night of October 24-25, 1989.

The nuclear-powered submarine USS Memphis, a Los Angeles-class attack submarine, was submerged to a depth of 150 meters (approximately 492 feet), about 150 miles off the coast of Florida. Although the exact nature of their mission was not specified, it was described simply as a “training mission.”

Suddenly, the situation took a dramatic and alarming turn. The crew immediately realized the seriousness and strangeness of what was happening. The submarine actually lost control, and all communication systems shut down.

When the captain gave the order to stop, the nuclear reactor itself began to malfunction. An urgent decision was made to surface, and fortunately, this crucial control function was still working.

An eyewitness, who later shared his story with a ufologist, hurried to his observation post to explore the surroundings. It is reported that he was stunned by what he saw: the night sky above the submarine shone brightly, “like a neon-red night sign.”

At the same time, heavy rain began to fall.

A few moments later, an eyewitness noticed a massive object in the shape of a boomerang or the letter “V” in the sky, moving to the left of the submarine. Using a laser rangefinder, it was determined that the object was about 200 meters (about 656 feet) away from us and at least half a mile in length (about 800 meters, or 2,625 feet).

The UFO did not just move, it began to slowly circle directly around the submarine, as if deliberately watching it. At this point, it is reported that all on-board electronics failed, which led to its malfunction.

An eyewitness observed how a huge red reflection was synchronously circling from a UFO on the water. He immediately reported the unidentified aircraft to a senior officer, who ordered him to remain at his post and continue surveillance. The captain was then informed of the unusual events.

Then the UFO stopped abruptly, and the entire sky around it turned an even more intense red. Then, he rushed forward with such incredible speed that he disappeared into the distance in an instant.

As soon as the UFO disappeared, the submarine's electronics returned to normal, and the reactor started working properly again. The only permanent damage was to the communications system.

As the submarine continued on its way, an eyewitness, the first mate, and two other officers were called to the wardroom.

They were informed that they were the only direct witnesses to the incident, and therefore they were forbidden to discuss it with anyone. Upon arrival of the USS Memphis at the port, all the witnesses were immediately removed from the submarine and placed in a separate room under “surveillance.”

Three hours later, a U.S. Navy officer arrived and informed them that they had actually seen an “exploding weather satellite" and nothing more. After this explanation, everyone was finally released.

However, the matter did not end there. Over the next few years, almost the entire Memphis crew was reportedly disbanded and transferred to other submarines for unknown reasons. None of the sailors were ever told the reason for their transfer, which, according to an eyewitness, is an extremely rare and unusual violation of the standard procedure of the Navy.

Moreover, it was discovered that all the main records of this particular USS Memphis flight had been carefully deleted. Only vague records remained indicating that it was “on a voyage with other ships,” and all the events of October 24 and 25 were completely deleted from other records.

Spain has achieved a technological breakthrough with the S-81 Isaac Peral submarine capable of producing hydrogen on board

 Spain has achieved a remarkable technological breakthrough with its S-81 Isaac Peral submarine, becoming the first country to develop a vessel capable of producing hydrogen on board. 

This revolutionary achievement marks a significant milestone in naval engineering and underwater technology, positioning Spain at the forefront of maritime innovation.

Revolutionary Hydrogen Production system transforms submarine capabilities The S-81 Isaac Peral submarine represents a watershed moment in naval technology as the world's first submarine with the ability to generate hydrogen directly on board. 

This ground-breaking capability uses an innovative system called BEST AIP (Bio-Ethanol Steaming Reforming Air Independent Propulsion), which converts bioethanol to hydrogen through an advanced reforming process.

The US Navy has successfully launched an unmanned underwater vehicle from the torpedo tube of the USS Delaware

The US Navy recently successfully launched the unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) Yellow Moray (REMUS 600) from the forward torpedo tube of the Virginia-class submarine USS Delaware. This experiment was an important step in the development of underwater and naval warfare technologies.

The launched vehicle performed a pre-programmed mission profile, demonstrating high maneuverability and the ability to effectively solve tactical tasks without the participation of the crew. The commander of the US Submarine forces noted that the successful test of the UUV opens up new opportunities to expand the potential of underwater operations and increase the combat effectiveness of the fleet.

The use of unmanned underwater vehicles makes it possible to significantly increase the control area, improve reconnaissance and reduce risks for submarine crews. The technology of UUV integration into torpedo tubes highlights the U.S. Navy's commitment to innovation and modernization of its forces.

Greek Navy Modernization Plan: Submarine Upgrade and New Equipment Procurement

 

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis will announce an important national defense modernization plan in Parliament on March 27, 2025, which includes the modernization and upgrading of four “Papanikolis”-class submarines and the purchase of new submarines.This plan aims to enhance the combat capabilities of the Greek navy to meet regional security challenges, especially in the context of tensions with Turkey.

The "Papanikolis"-class submarine is an important force of the Greek navy. It is based on the German Type 214 design and has an advanced air-independent propulsion (AIP) system.This modernization and upgrade plan will significantly enhance the combat capabilities of these submarines, enabling them to maintain a high degree of combat effectiveness in the coming decades.The upgrade includes new torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and advanced sonar systems.

In addition to upgrading existing submarines, Greece also plans to purchase new submarines to replace the old Type 209-class submarines.The Greek navy is considering a variety of design options, including Germany's Type 209 1400 Mod, France's “Scorpene” class (Scorpene) and Sweden's Saab A26.These new submarines will be gradually introduced into the Greek navy and are expected to be deployed within the next ten years.

The modernization plan of the Greek navy also includes updating its weapon systems.The first batch of 44 SeaHake Mod4 heavy torpedoes will arrive at the Salamis Naval Base in early summer 2025.These torpedoes were originally scheduled to be delivered in 2023, but were postponed due to supply chain disruptions.The SeaHake Mod4 torpedo has advanced electronic countermeasures capabilities and can accurately strike targets in complex sea conditions.

Greece's national defense modernization plan was launched in the context of the increasingly complex regional security situation.In recent years, Greece and Turkey have had disputes over maritime borders, energy resources, and airspace in the eastern Mediterranean.Greece hopes to maintain its military advantage in the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea by increasing its naval power.

Greece's national defense modernization plan not only includes submarine upgrades and the procurement of new equipment, but also involves the development of unmanned aerial vehicles, communications satellites, and the “Achilles Shield” (Achilles Shield) air defense anti-missile system.These measures will comprehensively enhance Greece's national defense capabilities and enable it to better respond to regional security challenges in the future.

Greece's national defense modernization plan shows its firm position on regional security issues, and it also provides important support for the collective security strategies of Europe and NATO.

Saab Unveils Upgraded HMS Halland Submarine: Gotland-Class Modernization Mirrors A26 Blekinge-Class Capabilities

 Saab has launched the HMS Halland submarine after a comprehensive mid-life upgrade completed at its Karlskrona shipyard. This launch marks the completion of a significant modernization program for the Gotland-class submarine, equipping it with advanced technologies and systems similar to those used on future Blekinge-class (A26) submarines.

Germany's Next-Generation Attack Submarine to Feature Revolutionary Underwater Anti-Aircraft Defense

Germany is set to revolutionize submarine warfare with the introduction of the world's first attack submarine equipped with active protection against helicopters. Scheduled for commissioning in the early 2030s, this next-generation submarine will feature the Interactive Defense and Attack System for Submarines (IDAS), a groundbreaking technology that promises to redefine underwater combat capabilities.

The development of IDAS was confirmed by Thyssenkrupp on January 23, following the receipt of long-awaited funding. IDAS is a wire-guided anti-aircraft missile designed to be launched underwater, making it the only publicly known weapon of its kind ever ordered. This innovative system addresses a critical vulnerability for submarines, which are typically at a disadvantage when pursued by helicopters equipped with advanced detection and attack capabilities.

Traditional submarines in some countries carry portable anti-aircraft missile launchers for emergency use. However, these launchers can only be deployed on the surface, which compromises the submarine's stealth and tactical advantage. IDAS overcomes this limitation by enabling underwater launches, thereby allowing the submarine to maintain its submerged status and evade detection.

The procurement package adopted in December ensures that Germany's next attack submarine will be at the forefront of submarine technology. The integration of IDAS will provide an unprecedented level of protection and offensive capability, enhancing the submarine's survivability and effectiveness in various combat scenarios.

"The funding for IDAS marks a significant milestone in our efforts to develop cutting-edge defense technologies," said a spokesperson for Thyssenkrupp. "This system will not only protect our submarines from aerial threats but also ensure that Germany remains a leader in submarine warfare innovation."

The development and integration of IDAS into Germany's next-generation attack submarine underscore the country's commitment to advancing its military capabilities and maintaining a strong defense posture. As the submarine enters service in the early 2030s, it will set a new standard for underwater warfare, demonstrating the potential of innovative technologies to address long-standing challenges in submarine operations.

With IDAS, Germany is poised to lead the way in submarine defense, providing a model for other nations seeking to enhance their underwater combat capabilities. The successful deployment of this revolutionary system will undoubtedly shape the future of submarine warfare, ensuring that Germany's submarines remain a formidable force in the world's oceans.

U.S. Navy Welcomes USS Iowa: The 12th Virginia-Class Submarine Delivered in 2024

 

submarine USS lowa (SSN-797)

The U. S. Navy has received the Virginia-class submarine USS lowa (SSN-797). marking its official delivery by General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB). This delivery represents the 12th ship of the line provid- ed to the Navy in 2024, and the 24th Virginia-class submarine built as part of a collaboration between GDEB and HII- Newport News Shipbuilding. This is the 13th attack submarine built by GDEB. The USS Iowa is equipped with advanced systems, including photonic masts that replace traditional periscopes and provide thermal imaging and low-light camera operation.