Eurosam initiates system trials of SAMP/T NG

An internal view of the C2 engagement module developed for the new SAMP/T NG long-range, ground-based air missile defence system. (Eurosam)

Eurosam – a joint venture (JV) of MBDA France, MBDA Italy, and Thales – has commenced system trials of the SAMP/T NG (Sol Air Moyenne Portée Terrestre Nouvelle Génération) next-generation long-range, ground-based air missile defence system, ahead of planned deliveries to France and Italy of a fully integrated and qualified capability in 2025.

The system trials include a live-firing campaign with the SAMP/T NG's new Aster Block 1 New Technology (B1 NT) interceptor. “We have initiated the system trials,” Eva Bruxmeier, managing director, Eurosam, told Janes. “Our teams have started to prepare the sites at the French Direction générale de l'armement's (DGA's) firing range at Biscarrosse on the Atlantic coast of southwest France, and a trials range will be prepared in the future at the Italian Ministry of Defence's PISQ [Poligono Interforze del Salto di Quirra] test range in Sardinia. However, the firing campaign is not just about testing the missile; we are a system provider, and as such we will test the whole system based on the new radars, engagement module, and launcher,” said Bruxmeier.

Eurosam is the industrial prime contractor and system design authority for the development, production, marketing, and sales of the SAMP/T NG, which was developed within the framework of the Famille de missiles Sol-Air Futurs (Future Surface-to-Air Family)/Principal Anti-Air Missile Systems) (FSAF/PAAMS) series of naval and ground-launched air-defence systems.