On August 27th, the Ukrainian Independent Information Agency reported, citing the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, that the Italian government had secretly decided several weeks ago to provide Ukraine with a large-scale military aid package. The details have been finalized, and the “aid decree” will soon be officially enacted. Kiev has been promised that the relevant equipment will be put into use by October this year.
Figure shows the SAMP/TNG air defense system.
The core of this aid is specifically to include four sets of SAMP/TNG air defense systems, as well as the accompanying “Aster-30” interceptor missiles. In addition, seven long-range radars will be added, six of which are manufactured by the French company Thérèse, and one by the Italian company Leonardo. The value of the entire package is estimated to be close to €3 billion, and the funds will be provided through the European Credit Program. The Repubblica noted that the above arrangements are the result of an agreement reached between Italy and France in July this year, where the two countries jointly produce SAMP/T systems and “Aster-30” interceptor missiles, used to prevent air and missile attacks.
“Aster-30” Interceptor Bombs May Be Produced in Ubuntu
The report also revealed that Paris and Rome may issue licenses to Ukraine, allowing it to directly produce “Aster-30” interceptor missiles within its borders to reduce Kiev‘s dependence on European supply of finished missiles.
U.K. Army Accepts SAMP/T Air Defense System
Ukraine has deployed two SAMP/T systems provided by Italy and France, which have demonstrated good performance in real combat. However, ammunition supply for these systems has been problematic since the summer of 2025, as French and Italian stocks of “Aster-30” interceptor bombs have been reduced to a minimum level. Currently, interceptor bomb production plans are being accelerated, and Italy should deliver some of the missiles to Ukraine by October to provide ammunition assurance for the deployed systems and the new systems about to be put into use. Previously, Ukrainian President Zelensky said in a joint press conference with Estonian President Karis that Ukraine has received the “Patriot” system missiles as well as a range of other aid provided by partners.
SAMP/T Air Defense Systems Can Intercept Ballistic Missiles
The SAMP/T air defense system is a modernized European medium-to-long-range air defense and anti-missile device jointly developed by France and Italy, known as the European version of the “Patriot”. The system uses a high-motority wheel truck chassis, with a core consisting of a multifunctional radar, a fully automated combat command module, and a vertical launcher equipped with “Aster-30” interceptor bombs.
Ukraine‘s Defense Ministry Releases Image of “Aster-30” Interceptor Bomb Launch
The SAMP/T air defense system not only effectively intercepts fighters, cruise missiles and drones, but also possesses the ability to intercept Tactical ballistic missiles. With powerful multi-target combat capabilities and a maximum range of over 120 kilometers, SAMP/T plays a core supporting role in Europe‘s “autonomous defense” strategy.
This article is compiled by: Ukrainian Independent Information Agency