Italy deploys SAMP/T air defence system in Lithuania on a rotational basis
Italy deployed a SAMP/T anti-aircraft missile system capable of intercepting ballistic missiles in Lithuania.
Here's What We Know
According to the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence, the February NATO exercise in Siauliai will see the integration of the command system of the Italian unit equipped with SAMP/T with the NATO Air Policing mission and Lithuanian NASAMS systems.
The deployment of the Italian system is in line with NATO's rotational air defence model agreed at the Alliance's Summit in Vilnius in July 2023. This model envisages the regular deployment of combat aircraft, air defence systems and support assets to different NATO countries, with a focus on the eastern flank. In addition to strengthening defence, this practice provides significant training opportunities.
???? The NATO Rotational Air Defence model is now practically implemented in Lithuania. Italy's SAMP/T system - engineered to intercept aircraft, cruise missiles and tactical ballistic missiles - enhances our collective air defence, providing a stronger shield against aerial threats. pic.twitter.com/SMNOLMaVVr
- Lithuanian MOD ?? (@Lithuanian_MoD) 17 February 2025
Back in October 2024, it became known that in 2025 at least three NATO countries would deploy their air defence systems in Lithuania. However, the Lithuanian authorities did not specify which countries would take part in the operation.
SAMP/T is a long-range air defence system developed by the European consortium Eurosam (MBDA Italy, MBDA France, Thales). It can destroy aerodynamic targets at a distance of up to 150 km and at an altitude of up to 25 km, as well as intercept ballistic missiles within a radius of 25 km. The system is based on the French Aster-30 missile with a speed of 4.5 M (1400 m/s).
Source: Lithuanian Ministry of Defence
