The governments of France and Italy have ordered the purchase of new SAMP/T air defense systems for their armed forces to protect against hypersonic missiles and short- to medium-range ballistic missiles. The system is 100% European, aimed at strengthening air defenses against threats to the security of the continent.
According to statements from the French Minister of the Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu, eight SAMP/T NG systems will be acquired in 2026, while Italy has placed an order for ten air defense systems. Although neither country made comments regarding the financial aspects, France included an expenditure authorization of 674 million euros in its 2024 military budget for this purchase.
Both Lecornu and his Italian counterpart are eager to expedite the acquisition of new air defense capabilities, particularly in a context that urges the region to remain vigilant due to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. In this regard, it is worth noting the role of France and Italy as suppliers of SAMP/T systems to Kyiv, having sent two systems: one at the beginning of the year and another in May.
To obtain such capabilities quickly and within Europe, without relying on external purchases, the SAMP/T systems have been chosen, as they are manufactured by EUROSAM. This Franco-Italian joint venture, created by MBDA and THALES, specializes in the design, production, and sale of long-range ground and naval air defense systems, with extensive experience in the operational requirements of the continent and NATO.
Undoubtedly, deploying “sovereign and innovative” European technologies is a priority. France aims to have eight SAMP/T NG systems by the end of 2030 and a total of 12 by 2035. Meanwhile, Italy expects to receive the first of five systems contracted with the European Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) in 2025.
However, the SAMP/T systems are not only notable for being European. These truck-based tactical anti-missile systems are designed and built to destroy tactical cruise or ballistic missiles, as well as manned and unmanned aircraft. They feature a radar that provides 360-degree coverage with a range of over 350 kilometers and can be equipped with up to six launchers, each carrying eight Aster 30 missiles, with the capability for each launcher to fire all eight missiles in about 10 seconds.
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