France is to supply Ukraine with the newest SAMP/T NG air defense system, a modernized version of the Franco-Italian complex designed to intercept advanced air threats, including ballistic missiles.
The information was released by the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky during a conversation with journalists, according to a report by RBC-Ukraine.
According to the Ukrainian leader, the European system is currently the only regional alternative to the American Patriot system, widely used for anti-missile defense. Zelensky stated that Ukraine will be the first in line to receive the new model, which is still finalizing its development phase.
According to the president, the system will be used in real combat conditions, allowing it to be tested against ballistic attacks.
“SAMP/T is the only alternative in Europe today. We will see this year whether the new SAMP/T systems bring down ballistics. This year we will receive a system that we will test against ballistics. If it works, it will be a good help in the long term,” said Zelensky, quoted by RBC-Ukraine.
New generation of European air defense system
O SAMP/T OF (Next Generation) represents a significant evolution of the air defense system developed jointly by France and Italy.
The new version incorporates improvements in sensors, radar and command software, expanding the ability to detect and intercept both aircraft and high-speed missiles.
The system also uses modernized versions of the missile Asterconsidered one of Europe’s most advanced interceptors for medium-range air defense.
Despite still being in the final phase of development, the program has already advanced to the operational introduction stage. At the end of February 2026, the French Armed Forces Air Warfare Center (CEAM-AWC) adopted the first SAMP/T NG system, marking an important step towards its integration into European forces.
Combat testing could define the future of the system
If the performance of the SAMP/T NG against ballistic targets is confirmed in real combat, the system could become a pillar of European air defense, in addition to significantly strengthening Ukraine’s ability to face missile attacks.
Experts consider that the use of the system in Ukraine could also serve as an operational test under war conditions, providing valuable data for future versions of the system.
Source and images: RBC-Ukraine | MBDA. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
