The current SAMP/T system, equipped with the ASTER 30 B1, is already deployed to secure and defend the airspace in various European countries. As a battle-proven system through its extensive use on the Ukrainian frontline, the SAMP/T can efficiently engage the whole spectrum of threats.

ASTER 15 and 30 missiles are also successfully operated in the Red Sea to ensure the security of the shipping traffic facing ballistic missiles and drones, from French, Italian, and British frigates, especially in the context of the APSIDES operation. During the second ministerial conference dedicated to air defence in Europe, Sébastien Lecornu, Minister for the Armed Forces, stressed that the development of SAMP/T NG system and its ASTER missiles is hastening in France and in Italy.

The SAMP/T NG system will address future maneuvering ballistic and hypersonic threats. Thus, France’s eight SAMPT sections will be refurbished in SAMP/T NG sections. The Military Programming Law plans the order of four additional sections in 2027.

On Italy’s side, the program covers the refurbishment of five SAMP/T sections for the land forces and the acquisition on five new SAMP/T NG sections for the Italian air force. The first SAMP/T NG sections will be delivered in 2026.

Developed under the management support of OCCAr, and managed by the Joint-Venture Eurosam, with the ASTER missile family from MBDA extended to the next generation ASTER 30 B1 New Technology, and with the two next generation AESA² radars for an enhanced air surveillance capability: the GF300 radar from Thales and the Kronos GM HP radar from Leonardo. The system’s open architecture facilitates its integration and interoperability with other European systems making this system a decisive air defence capability for Europe. Furthermore, it guarantees our strategic autonomy and a short-term availability.

[2] Active Electronically Scanned Array.

Source: French Forces