French Hypersonic Weapons Maturing

On September 2, 2026 I Google AI'd :  Yes, France is actively developing hypersonic weapons. [1, 2]

Key Hypersonic Programs

ASN4G Missile: The French Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) officially commissioned MBDA to develop the ASN4G (Air-Sol Nucléaire de 4ème Génération), a scramjet-powered, air-launched nuclear cruise missile designed to fly at hypersonic speeds (expected around Mach 6–7). It is planned to enter service by roughly 2035 and be carried by the Rafale F5 fighter. [1, 2, 3]
V-MAX Demonstrator: France previously launched the V-MAX (Véhicule MAnoeuvrant eXpérimental) experimental maneuvering glider program, managed by ArianeGroup under the DGA, to master hypersonic glide vehicle technologies through flight tests. [1]

Most users on Reddit agree that the formal contract award for the ASN4G marks a major technological leap for France's airborne nuclear deterrence capability. [1]

Would you like to know more about the Rafale F5 integration or the difference between scramjet cruise missiles and hypersonic glide vehicles?