- This development aims to give the SAMP/T NG short-range ground-to-air capability with the Mica VL missile in addition to the long-range and anti-ballistic missile capability with the Aster missile.
- This development is based on the integration of the engagement chain of the VL Mica system into the SAMP/T NG command center.
- In an operational context where the number and diversity of aerial threats are increasingly important, the SAMP/T NG will enable even more efficient ground-to-air defense, via optimized use of effectors.
- Under this contract, the eight SAMP/T NG sections provided for in the 2024-2030 military programming law will be delivered to the Air and Space Force (AAE) from 2030, in this multi-layer Aster / Mica VL configuration. They will help build an expanded and fully integrated air defense necessary for the Air Force and AAE to maintain its ability to counter all types of threats in the decades to come.
Ground-air defense (DSA) is designed to secure the entire airspace according to a multi-layer logic, on the national territory and in external operations. It is guaranteed by the networking of sensors (in particular GF300 radars or GM200 radars), driving and command information systems and effectors (to implement, in particular, the Aster B1 and Aster B1NT missiles, the Mica VL and the Mistral 3). The DGA ensures project management of all of this system of systems.
To date, short-range DSA is provided by VL Mica sections held by the AAE, deployed for the first time during the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. VL Mica can already be implemented in multi-layer mode via the higher level CMD3D which coordinates several weapon systems, themselves equipped with their respective command centers (NC1 for the Mistral 3,Tactical operational center for the VL Mica, Engagement Module (ME) of the SAMP/T for the Aster).
The ambition of this project, led by the DGA, is to converge the medium and long range Aster B1 and Aster B1NT effectors and the short range VL Mica and VL Mica NG (in their infrared and electromagnetic version) in a multi-layer logic, whether during specific air security devices on the territory nationally or during projections in external operating theaters. This new operational use requires physical and software developments of the fire control engagement module (ME-NG and GF300 radar) of the SAMP/T NG. The eight sections upgraded to the multi-layer standard which will be delivered from 2030 will then benefit from the full integration of the Aster and Mica VL effectors. The ME-NG will thus ensure the coordination of fire to respond to the spectrum of threats in the most appropriate way by seeking a proportionate response with an effector.for this.
This device is intended to be scalable with a multi-layer system in its sights, also integrating very short-range (Mistral 3) and anti-drone systems. This continuous integration will allow the AAE to ensure its expanded air defense mission in all circumstances in the face of threats, whether they are proliferating or more complex.
