French UFOs identified as missiles

Summary

In May 1999, nine witnesses in the Hautes-Pyrénées observed a bright light in the night sky followed by a triangular or conical cloud. Initially classified as unexplained, the case was re-examined decades later using new tools and experience. GEIPAN researchers found it matched French missile tests on May 4, 1999. Although the exact firing time was unknown, the directions, altitudes, and descriptions aligned with the test launches. A pilot also reported the same phenomenon from an airplane, reinforcing the theory. Ultimately, the two cases were merged and classified as likely linked to an M45 or M4 missile launched into the Gulf of Gascony from off the coast of Brittany.