The Italian Army has taken a decisive step toward modernizing its air and missile defense capabilities with the delivery of its first SAMP/T NG (New Generation) system, a key component of Italy’s future multi-layered and networked air defense framework.
The new medium-range air defense system has been assigned to the Anti-Aircraft Artillery Command in Sabaudia, where it joins the Grifo short-range air defense system. This layered setup is further reinforced by Rheinmetall’s Skynex system, which was delivered in late 2025 to provide point and close-range defense against drones, rockets, and other low-altitude threats.
Developed by the EUROSAM consortium, the SAMP/T NG is designed to address high-end and emerging threats, including ballistic missiles and hypersonic weapons. The system features the Aster B1NT interceptor, capable of engagements beyond 150 kilometers, and the Kronos Grand Mobile radar from Leonardo, delivering long-range surveillance and precision tracking at ranges exceeding 350 kilometers. The platform is an evolution of the combat-proven SAMP/T system and reflects lessons learned from recent operational environments.
Complementing the SAMP/T NG, the Grifo air defense system, developed by MBDA Italy under a program launched in 2019, employs the CAMM-ER missile to counter aircraft, helicopters, unmanned systems, cruise missiles, and anti-radiation threats. Together, these highly mobile and modular systems are designed for integrated, omnidirectional defense, enabling Italy to operate seamlessly within NATO’s integrated air and missile defense architecture while significantly enhancing national airspace protection.
