Italy and France to receive next-generation SAMP/T NG air defence systems

The European Organisation for Co-operation in the Field of Arms (OCCAR) has signed a contract for the production of SAMP/T NG (New Generation) air defence systems. The air defence systems will be supplied to the French and Italian armed forces.

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The agreement has been signed on behalf of the Armaments Directorate General of the French Ministry of Defence and the Italian Air Force National Armament Directorate. The air defence system was initiated by the air forces of the two countries in early spring 2021.

The air defence system consists of six (maximum) launchers and two new generation radar stations. Italy will receive a radar from Leonardo called Kronos Grand Mobile High Power. The developer of the station for France is Thales. The radar is called Ground Fire 300. In addition, the system includes a fire control module jointly manufactured by Thales and MBDA Italy.

The next-generation SAMP/T NG air defence system can detect and intercept targets over 600 km away, including ballistic missiles. Each launcher can launch up to eight Aster missiles. Deliveries will begin in 2025.

Source: OCCAR