France and Italy have successfully fired new ASTER B1NT missiles from different versions of the SAMP/T NG ADS. As reported by MBDA on Tuesday, December 16, the firings were held at PISQ (Poligono Interforze del Salto di Quirra) test range, in Sardinia, on December the 3rd with a SAMP/T NG Italian variant and at DGA Essais de Missiles test range, at Biscarrosse, on December the 15th with a SAMP/T NG French variant.
As noted in the MBDA press release, "these two new firings in full new generation system configuration (Engagement Module, sensor radar, launchers interconnected) demonstrate the enhanced operational capabilities of the SAMP/T NG long range air defense system which will allow to intercept challenging aerial and missiles targets in terms of range, manoeuvrability, furtivity or speed." In fact, the entire development of the SAMP/T NG is designed to significantly increase the effectiveness of intercepting ballistic targets, such as Iskander missiles, as well as to ensure the ability to intercept hypersonic targets such as Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles.
Read more: Anti-Ballistic Radar For SAMP/T NG Missile Defense System Has Passed FAT Tests
These firings became the next for the ASTER B1NT after launches in October 2024 and July 2025, with both previous tests being conducted in France. That is, this was the first launch of the ASTER B1NT missiles from the SAMP/T NG in Italy.
We recall that the new missile received a new radar homing head with a new range (Ka- instead of Ku-range). In addition, this combat unit is based on a new element base, which allowed for greater accuracy of target engagement. In addition, the software of the ASTER B1NT missile was optimized to counter ballistic threats.
It is also important to clarify the clarification regarding the SAMP/T NG ADS versions. The fact is that the French decided to replace the Arabel radar station with the Ground Fire 300 by Thales. But the Italians integrated the Kronos GM HP radar system by Leonardo into their air defense systems.
Both radar stations are modern models with active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar antenna, created using GaN technology and, despite their considerable size, provide all-round visibility due to rotation at a speed of one revolution per second. The Ground Fire 300 radar operates in the S-band (2-4 GHz, 15-7.5 cm), while the Kronos GM HP in the C-band (4-8 GHz, 7.5-3.75 cm).
According to the published characteristics, the Italian radar has a smaller target detection range - over 300 km, but not up to 400 km, like the French one. The declared number of targets that can be tracked simultaneously also differs - up to 500, as opposed to up to 1000, respectively, like the French radar.
These tests were apparently connected with the fact that Italy and France should receive the first samples of the SAMP/T NG quite soon - in early 2026. In total, the French expect eight SAMP/T NG air defense systems by 2030, as well as four more by 2034. The Italians have ordered ten of these air defense systems, but do not disclose the delivery dates.
In addition to these countries, the SAMP/T NG has also been ordered by Denmark. And among the potential buyers, Luxembourg has recently unexpectedly appeared, for which the high degree of automation of this air defense system and the small crew are very important, because the entire army of this country consists of only 900 people.
While France and Italy are waiting for their SAMP/T NG SAM systems, Defense Express urges you to join a fundraising for what is already working: One United Fundraiser: Fundraising by the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation for interceptor drones.
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