Groundbreaking Aster missile test sets stage for advanced European air defence

The Franco-Italian SAMP/T NG air defence system, often referred to as Europe’s equivalent to the Patriot system, is undergoing a major upgrade with the integration of new Aster Block 1 NT missiles, capable of intercepting ballistic and hypersonic threats.

According to Polish media, in late July, France’s Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) successfully conducted a second live-fire test of the Aster Block 1 NT at the Biscarrosse missile range.

The test demonstrated the missile's ability to engage high-altitude targets at a range of around 150 km, confirming the performance of its new Ka-band seeker and upgraded electronic systems.

Produced by MBDA, the Aster Block 1 NT is a next-generation version of the Aster 30 Block 1, designed to counter ballistic missiles up to 1,500 km in range and hypersonic threats flying above Mach 5.

The missiles will be deployed on the new SAMP/T NG systems in France and Italy, featuring advanced radars—Thales Ground Fire 300 and Leonardo Kronos Grand Mobile HP—and upgraded command systems.

Each battery will include six launchers, each loaded with eight interceptors. The missiles are also compatible with warships fitted with the PAAMS air defence system, such as France’s Horizon-class frigates, Italy’s Orizzonte-class destroyers, and the UK’s Daring-class destroyers.

MBDA, which has produced over 2,000 Aster missiles since 2002, plans to significantly scale up production amid heightened demand in Europe, with faster deliveries expected as early as next year.

The Aster missile family recently saw its first combat use at sea, intercepting drones and ballistic missiles in the Red Sea during joint naval operations led by European and US forces.

By Tamilla Hasanova