The Italian Army has taken delivery of its first SAMP/T NG air defense system, advancing Italy’s effort to establish a layered and networked air and missile defense architecture. The system was received by the Anti-Aircraft Artillery Command in Sabaudia, alongside the Grifo short-range air defense system. The delivery follows the earlier arrival of Rheinmetall’s Skynex close-in air defense system, creating a multi-tiered defensive structure. Developed by the EUROSAM joint venture of MBDA Italy, MBDA France, and Thales, the SAMP/T NG is designed to counter a wide spectrum of threats, including aircraft, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and emerging hypersonic systems. The new-generation system incorporates the Aster B1NT interceptor, offering engagement ranges exceeding 150 kilometers, and Leonardo’s Kronos Grand Mobile radar, capable of detecting threats beyond 350 kilometers. A total of 10 SAMP/T NG systems are planned for Italy, with additional units for France. Together with the CAMM-ER-based Grifo system, the capability provides mobile, interoperable, and NATO-compatible air defense coverage.
