France launches full-scale development of ASN4G hypersonic nuclear air-launched missile

France’s DGA has moved the ASN4G 4th-generation air-to-surface nuclear missile from studies into full-scale development with MBDA, aiming for Mach 6–8 and >1000 km range. While not a battlefield deployment, it signals a new hypersonic standoff strike capability and integration with Rafale F5’s networked concept (including loyal-wingman UAVs).