The test was designed to simulate a complex air defence scenario involving both enemy and friendly aircraft. The Aster B1NT successfully distinguished and neutralised the enemy target, showcasing its advanced capabilities. The missile’s unique aerodynamic design and thrust vector control allow for exceptional manoeuvrability, making it particularly effective in high-stakes defence situations.
[#Qualification ✔️] 1er tir #SAMPT_NG
La DGA a réalisé le 1er tir de qualification du système de défense sol-air 🇫🇷-🇮🇹 de nouvelle génération avec un #Aster 30 B1 de @MBDAGroup sur le site de #DGAEssaisdemissiles, à Biscarrosse en présence de @SebLecornu et du @DG_Armement ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/Bjd2O60GjD
— Direction générale de l’armement 🇫🇷 (@DGA) October 8, 2024
The Aster B1NT marks the latest advancement in MBDA’s spiral development of the Aster missile family, which has a proven track record of countering various threats, including UAVs and ballistic missiles. Recent operations in the Red Sea saw the Aster family used to defeat asymmetric threats for the first time. With over 2,000 missiles delivered and more than 250 successful test firings, the Aster series continues to play a vital role in European defence.
This newest evolution of the Aster missile, developed through French-Italian cooperation, is designed to remain a cornerstone of European air defence until 2060 and beyond. With its cutting-edge Ka seeker and upgraded electronics and pyrotechnics, the Aster B1NT is capable of countering high-end threats, including manoeuvrable and hypersonic weapons. The continued development of this missile will further enhance the entire Aster family’s effectiveness, reinforcing Europe’s hypersonic defence capabilities.
The Aster B1NT will soon be integrated into the SAMP/T NG ground-based air defence system, which will be deployed by Italian and French armed forces. This system represents a major innovation in European defence and will also be used by naval forces from France, Italy, and the UK through PAAMS, known as Sea Viper in the UK. The SAMP/T NG system offers multi-layered defence capabilities, able to address a wide range of air threats, from drones to ballistic missiles.
As Europe’s only multi-layered air defence system, SAMP/T NG is set to play a crucial role in future defence strategies. Its open architecture allows for scalability and integration with NATO’s air and missile defence systems, ensuring it remains a key asset in countering new and evolving threats, such as hypersonic missiles. MBDA’s ongoing commitment to innovation and security will continue to support the defence of Europe and its allied nations well into the future.