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ASMPA‑R Nuclear Cruise Missile

ASMPA‑R Nuclear Cruise Missile

Manufacturer: MBDA
Category: Missiles & Precision Weapons
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Guidance System Inertial Navigation + GPS
Maximum Speed Mach 3+
Launch Compatibility Rafale Fighter Jet
Warhead Technology Nuclear

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation	ASMPA-R
Type / Role	Air-Launched Nuclear Cruise Missile
Country of Origin	France
Manufacturer	MBDA France
Service Entry / Year Introduced	2009
Operational Status	Active

2. Performance & Range

Range	>500 km
Speed	Mach 3+
Ceiling / Altitude Limit	Low-to-Medium altitude flight
Accuracy (CEP)	<30 meters
Warhead Type	Nuclear

3. Guidance & Targeting

Guidance System	INS + GPS
Targeting Mode	Pre-programmed / Fire-and-Forget
Launch Platform Compatibility	Rafale Fighter Jet
Seeker Type	Terrain-following, Low Observable

4. Physical Characteristics

Length	5.38 m
Diameter	0.50 m
Wingspan	2.10 m
Launch Weight	1,500 kg
Propulsion	Solid-fuel ramjet

5. Warhead & Payload

Warhead Weight	~300 kg
Explosive Type	Nuclear
Detonation Mechanism	Implosion-type
Payload Options	Nuclear

6. Operational Use & Capabilities

Operational Range Type	Long
Deployment Platform	Air
Target Types	Strategic installations, infrastructure
Combat Proven	No
Users / Operators	France

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

8.5

Technology 9 / 10
Performance 9 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10
Range & Endurance 8 / 10

PROS

Mach 3+ speed ensures rapid target engagement.
Long-range standoff capability (>500 km).
Advanced stealth reduces radar detectability.
Precision guidance for strategic target accuracy.
Deployable from multiple Rafale variants.

CONS

Limited to nuclear payloads in operational use.
High unit cost and maintenance requirements.
Export restrictions limit availability.
Reliance on specific aircraft platforms.
Complex guidance systems require specialized training.

ASMPA‑R Nuclear Cruise Missile

The ASMPA‑R represents France’s latest advancement in airborne strategic deterrence. Designed to ensure credible nuclear strike capability, the missile is deployed primarily by France’s Rafale fighter fleet and serves as a cornerstone of the nation’s nuclear triad. Developed and manufactured by MBDA France, the ASMPA‑R combines high-speed, long-range performance with modern stealth and guidance technologies.

Purpose and Operational Use

The ASMPA‑R is a nuclear-capable, air-launched cruise missile intended for precision strike against high-value strategic targets. It enhances France’s ability to maintain a credible deterrent, capable of penetrating advanced enemy air defenses and striking targets at extended distances. The missile’s deployment from fighter aircraft allows flexible operational options while minimizing risk to launch platforms.

Performance and Capabilities

The missile reaches speeds exceeding Mach 3, allowing rapid penetration of defended airspace. Its range extends beyond 500 kilometers, providing standoff capability that keeps the launching aircraft out of direct threat zones. The ASMPA‑R is equipped with advanced inertial navigation and GPS guidance, coupled with potential terrain-following flight modes, ensuring exceptional accuracy. Its compact nuclear warhead provides strategic strike power, while its low-observable design reduces detection by enemy radar.

Technology and Features

The missile integrates cutting-edge propulsion and guidance systems to maintain high speed and maneuverability. Stealth coatings and aerodynamic optimization minimize radar cross-section, and the missile can operate under a variety of environmental conditions. Its compatibility with the Rafale fighter jet ensures rapid deployment in high-intensity conflict scenarios.

ASMPA-R missile Price in United States

While the ASMPA‑R is a French strategic asset not typically available for export to the U.S., similar advanced air-launched cruise missile systems in the U.S., like the AGM‑158 JASSM, are estimated at $1.5–$2 million per unit depending on configuration and support packages. Pricing reflects high-end guidance systems, nuclear-capable payload integration, and advanced propulsion technology.

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