Leonardo has tested the Kronos Grand Mobile HP radar for the next-generation SAMP/T NG missile defence system, which can track ballistic missiles

Leonardo has completed a series of factory acceptance tests of the Kronos Grand Mobile HP (High Power) radar. The radar will be integrated into the SAMP/T NG air defence system.

Here's What We Know

The SAMP/T NG (New Generation) is a modernisation of the Franco-Italian SAMP/T surface-to-air missile system, which has been in service for more than 20 years. The New Generation system comprises six launchers, each capable of launching up to eight Aster missiles capable of intercepting ballistic missiles.

The SAMP/T NG is scheduled for delivery in 2026. Italy will receive the surface-to-air missile system along with the new Kronos Grand Mobile HP radar. It is based on the Leonard EMPAR shipborne radar with an active phased array antenna array.

During the trials, Leonardo evaluated the radar station's performance and capabilities, including range, friend-and-foe mode and ballistic missile tracking. The Kronos Grand Mobile HP uses gallium nitride-based modules and can detect targets within a range of up to 300 kilometres at altitudes of up to 30 kilometres.

Source: OCCAR