Introduction

At the Eurosatory defense exhibition in France, the advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Platform/Terrain New Generation (SAMP/T NG) air defense system developed by the Eurosam consortium was presented. The consortium includes major defense industry players MBDA France, MBDA Italy, and Thales. This system is designed to provide comprehensive protection against a wide range of air threats, including ballistic missiles and supersonic targets, and represents a significant achievement of joint efforts within the European Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR).

Technological Advancements

The development of the SAMP/T NG system began in 2021 and includes the use of updated Aster missiles and advanced radars, such as the Leonardo Kronos Grand Mobile High Power for Italy and Thales Ground Fire 300 for France. These technologies make SAMP/T NG an integral part of air space and civil area defense in both countries.

Capabilities

The SAMP/T NG integrates multi-band and multi-level capabilities with Short-Range Air Defense (SHORAD) vertical launchers, providing effective protection against various air threats such as drones, ballistic missiles, and others. This allows the system to effectively counter a variety of attack scenarios, making it unique in Europe for its ability to integrate different elements of air and ballistic threat management within NATO.

Key Features

The key component of SAMP/T NG is the Module of Engagement New Generation (ME NG) with an open architecture for the integration of various firing radars, such as Thales Ground Fire and Leonardo Kronos Grand Mobile High Power. The system can manage up to six ASTER launchers with eight missiles each, as well as up to six Short-Range Air Defense (SHORAD) launchers, including VL MICA or CAMM-ER, and Very Short-Range Air Defense (V-SHORAD) launchers.

Operational Efficiency

Additionally, SAMP/T NG is designed for integration into tactical command chains and NATO management systems, providing coordination with high-level command centers. The development in partnership between Thales and MBDA Italia ensures high operational flexibility and system efficiency.