The SAMP/T system, which had been previously stationed in Slovakia, will now aid Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico revealed in March that Italy had decided to withdraw the system from Slovakia, although specific reasons for this move were not disclosed.
In addition to the SAMP/T system, Italy’s aid package will include portable Stinger air defence systems, which are of American origin. These developments come as Ukraine has expressed a pressing need for enhanced air defence capabilities to counter increased drone and missile attacks by Russian forces.
The SAMP/T system, developed by European defence company Eurosam, is equipped with Aster 30 interceptors, which were originally designed for military ships and have a range of up to 120 kilometers. The system also incorporates the ARABEL fire control radar by Thales, capable of tracking threats up to 100 kilometers away.
This advanced system can address various aerial threats including drones and cruise missiles, providing a critical shield against aerial assaults. Last year, Italy and France had cooperated to provide a similar system to Ukraine, which was reportedly destroyed, as claimed by the Russian Ministry of Defence.
The announcement follows Germany’s recent commitment to supply Ukraine with an additional MIM-104 Patriot air defence system, highlighting a continued international effort to support Ukraine’s defense against escalating aerial threats.
