Media: Italy to supply Samp-T air defence missiles to Ukraine In its upcoming 11th military aid package

Italy plans to include air defence missiles and ammunition in its upcoming eleventh military aid package to Ukraine, according to a report by Italian daily Il Messaggero published on April 14.

Citing government sources, the Italian newspaper stated that the new assistance will focus heavily on defensive capabilities, with particular emphasis on supplying missiles and ammunition for the Franco-Italian Samp-T air defence systems currently deployed to protect Ukrainian cities, Caliber.Az reports.

Described as a "robust package", the aid is expected to prioritise replenishing munitions essential to the effective operation of these air defence batteries.

​The SAMP/T (Surface-to-Air Missile Platform/Terrain), also known as MAMBA in France, is a mobile, long-range air defense system jointly developed by France and Italy. Designed to counter a variety of aerial threats—including aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, and tactical ballistic missiles—it utilizes the Aster 30 missile, capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 4.5 and engaging targets beyond 100 km. ​

A typical SAMP/T battery comprises a command and control vehicle, the Arabel multi-function radar, and up to six launcher vehicles, each equipped with eight missiles. The system can track up to 100 targets simultaneously and manage the guidance of multiple missiles. ​

The next-generation variant, SAMP/T NG, introduces enhancements such as the Aster 30 B1NT missile with an advanced Ka-band seeker, extending interception capabilities beyond 150 km. It also features improved radar systems and open architecture for better integration with NATO defense networks. ​

Operational deployments include NATO missions in Lithuania and Slovakia and support for Ukraine's air defense. ​

By Aghakazim Guliyev