Does France have nuclear weapons?

France tested its first nuclear weapon in 1960 and is one of five nuclear weapons states recognized under the NPT. It currently possesses the world’s fourth largest nuclear stockpile, deliverable by submarine and air-launched cruise missiles.

When did France get nuclear?

1960
Often overshadowed by the United States and the Soviet Union, France became the fourth country to possess nuclear weapons after its first test in 1960. While development was slowed by the impact of World War II, the achievements of early French research were critical for nuclear development worldwide.

Where did France test its nuclear weapons?

On 13 February 1960, France conducted its first nuclear test, code-named “Gerboise Bleue” (Blue Desert Rat). The day marked the beginning of a series of four atmospheric nuclear tests at the Reganne Oasis, in the Sahara Desert of Algeria.

Why did France want to test nuclear weapons?

The Outbreak of World War II: 1939-1940 While they were likely aware of the possibility of the atomic bomb, prominent French scientists believed that nuclear power could provide the answer to France’s energy needs.

Who builds French nuclear submarines?

Naval Group
The French Navy’s Barracuda- or Suffren-class submarines are nuclear-powered attack submarines designed by French shipbuilder Naval Group and equipped with four torpedo tubes and 20 weapons racks able to carry heavy torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles, and naval mines.

How many nuclear subs has France got?

four
France possesses four Le Triomphant-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs).

How many nuclear tests has France conducted?

France has deactivated all land-based nuclear missiles. France conducted 210 nuclear tests between 1960 and 1995. France was among the pioneers of nuclear weapons technology.

Why did France become interested in nuclear weapons?

France’s interest in nuclear science was at first a quest for an energy source more than a weapon—an industrial nation needed fuel to power its armaments factories. Joliot-Curie asked the government for money and certain rare materials: uranium ore and “heavy water.”

Does France have a nuclear weapons triad?

By the 1980s France possessed both a vibrant civil nuclear power industry but also robust nuclear military might. The formerly energy-poor nation now sold electricity at a profit to its neighbors and fielded a full nuclear triad.

Can France achieve energy independence with nuclear energy?

French policy makers saw only one way for France to achieve energy independence: nuclear energy, a source of energy so compact that a few pounds of fissionable uranium is all the fuel needed to run a big city for a year. Plans were drawn up to introduce the most comprehensive national nuclear energy program in history.