SAMP/T NG could strengthen Ukraine's air defenses: Key features and capabilities

What is SAMP/T and who manufactures it

SAMP/T is a medium-range ground-based air defense missile system designed to protect critical infrastructure and troops from airborne threats. The system uses missiles from the Aster family and has missile defense capabilities.

The system was developed by the Franco-Italian consortium Eurosam, which includes MBDA France, MBDA Italy, and Thales. SAMP/T is in service with France and Italy.

Ukraine received its first SAMP/T battery in May 2023. Its arrival in Ukraine was reported on May 15.

In June 2023, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that the SAMP/T had already been deployed in Ukraine and was carrying out combat missions. Ukraine already has two SAMP/T batteries, provided by Italy and France.

Meanwhile, the SAMP/T NG, which is currently being discussed in reports regarding new aid, is the next generation of the system. It features a new radar, launchers, a control system, and upgraded missiles.

SAMP/T NG specifications

According to Eurosam, the SAMP/T NG provides 360-degree coverage and is capable of detecting air targets at ranges exceeding 350 km. The system can intercept air targets at ranges exceeding 150 km.

Eurosam also states that the SAMP/T NG is capable of detecting and intercepting maneuvering ballistic missiles with a range exceeding 600 km.

A SAMP/T NG battery consists of a multifunctional radar, a command and control module, and up to six launchers. Each launcher can carry eight missiles, so a single battery can hold up to 48 Aster missiles ready for launch.

The system is mobile and can be made operational in less than 30 minutes. Eurosam also notes the ability to integrate the SAMP/T NG into national air defense networks and its compatibility with NATO and coalition systems.

These specifications apply specifically to the SAMP/T NG, not the first version of the SAMP/T, which Ukraine received in 2023.

Photo: SAMP/T (Getty Images)

What Ukraine will receive

According to La Repubblica, the new Italian aid package will include the transfer of four SAMP/T NG batteries, Aster 30 interceptor missiles, and seven long-range radars to Ukraine. Six of them are to be manufactured by the French company Thales, and one by the Italian company Leonardo.

Ukraine is set to become the first country to receive the SAMP/T NG, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated.

In July, the SAMP/T system was also discussed in Ukraine. At that time, it was announced that France and Italy planned to transfer a portion of the Aster 30 missiles as early as October. Additionally, the countries authorized the licensed production of Aster 30 missiles in Ukraine, which is set to begin by the end of 2026, according to a joint declaration by the Presidents of Ukraine and France.

France also supports the development of Ukrainian anti-ballistic missile interceptors, specifically the FREYJA project, and will facilitate industrial cooperation between Ukrainian and French companies.

A joint declaration by the Presidents of Ukraine and France issued in July of this year also stated that Ukraine intends to order four SAMP/T NG systems. Funding for these systems is planned to come from tranches of the Ukraine Support Loan for 2026 and 2027.

While the new systems are being manufactured, France will provide Ukraine with two previous-generation SAMP/T systems, which are to be returned to France upon delivery of the SAMP/T NG systems.

The SAMP/T NG does not yet have the same combat experience as the older SAMP/T systems. At the same time, the system is being developed specifically to meet new requirements for air and missile defense, particularly the need to counter ballistic targets.

The Office of the President of Ukraine reported that electronics and other components manufactured in the US, Germany, Japan, and other countries have been found in Russian missiles. Some of these components enter Russia via third countries, which complicates efforts to ensure compliance with sanctions.