Faced with the multiplication of aerial threats, from ballistic missiles to drones, France is taking a new step in the modernization of its ground-air defense.
The General Directorate of Armamentsaway theOCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation)ordered the development of a new version of the Franco-Italian SAMP/T NG system integrating the ASTER and MICA VL missiles within a unique architecture called “ multi-couches HAS”. This program is supported by EUROSAM GIE, MBDA et Thales.
The objective is to have a system capable of dealing with the entire spectrum of air threats thanks to optimized management of the different effectors: MICA VL missiles for short-range threats, ASTER B1 and B1NT for medium-range threats and anti-ballistic missile defense.
From 2030, the eight SAMP/T NG sections provided for by the 2024-2030 Military Programming Law will be delivered to the Air and Space Force in this new configuration. This development will make it possible to strengthen the protection of the national territory, strategic infrastructures and the forces deployed in operations.
Beyond technological performance, this program illustrates the rise in European industrial cooperation in a field that has become central: integrated air defense. MBDA, Thales and their partners are already preparing future developments of the system with the integration of Mistral 3 missiles and anti-drone capabilities.
