France plans to provide Ukraine with the latest version of the French-Italian air defense system, SAMP/T NG, designed to intercept advanced air threats, including ballistic missiles.
This information is provided by the President of UkraineVolodymyr ZelenskyThis was revealed during a conversation with reporters, as reported by RBC Ukraine.
According to Ukraine’s president, the European system is currently the region’s only alternative to the American Patriot system, which is widely used for missile defense. President Zelenskiy said Ukraine would be the first to receive the new system, which is in the final stages of development.
According to the president, the system will be operated under real combat conditions to test its effectiveness against ballistic attacks.
“SAMP/T is currently the only alternative in Europe. This year we will see whether the new SAMP/T system is able to shoot down ballistic missiles. This year we will receive the system for testing against ballistic missiles. If successful, it will be of great help in the long term,” President Zelenskiy said, as quoted by RBC Ukraine.
A new generation of European air defense systems
SAMP/T OF(Next Generation) is a significant evolution of the air defense system jointly developed by France and Italy.
This new version features improved sensors, radar, and command software to enhance its ability to detect and intercept aircraft and high-velocity missiles.
Also, this systemAsterIt uses the latest type of missile and is considered one of the most advanced intermediate-range air defense interceptor missiles in Europe.
Although still in the final stages of development, the program has already advanced to the operational implementation stage. At the end of February 2026, the French Armed Forces Air Combat Center (CEAM-AWC) adopted the first SAMP/T NG system, marking an important step towards its integration into the European Armed Forces.
Practical testing may determine the future of the system
If SAMP/T NG proves effective against ballistic targets in combat, the system could become one of the mainstays of European air defense and significantly strengthen Ukraine’s missile defense capabilities.
Experts say the operation in Ukraine could also serve as a real-world test in a war environment and provide valuable data for future system improvements.
Source/Image:RBC Ukraine |MBDA. This content is created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
