France Successfully Conducts First Live-Fire Test of Next-Generation SAMP/T NG Air Defense System

Successful Live-Fire Test Marks Milestone for French Air Defense

France has successfully conducted the first live-fire test of its next-generation SAMP/T NG (Sol-Air Moyenne-Portée/Terrestre New Generation) air defense system. The test, which took place on December 15, 2025, at the DGA Essais de Missiles range in Biscarrosse, southwest France, validated the system's modernized engagement module and its advanced Ground Fire radar.

This significant achievement follows an initial qualification firing in Italy on December 3, 2025, and represents a crucial step towards the operational deployment of the system. The SAMP/T NG program is a collaborative effort managed by OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation) on behalf of France and Italy, with Eurosam, a joint venture between Thales and MBDA, serving as the lead contractor.

Advanced Capabilities Against Diverse Threats

The SAMP/T NG is designed as a highly mobile, long-range air and missile defense system, offering enhanced protection against a comprehensive spectrum of aerial threats. Its capabilities include:

• Interception of aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, and tactical ballistic missiles.
• Utilizing the Ground Fire 360-degree AESA radar (for the French variant), which provides up to 400 km surveillance range with 360-degree coverage and 90-degree elevation.
• Engagement of air-breathing targets beyond 150 km and maneuvering ballistic missiles with ranges exceeding 600 km.
• Ability to track over 1000 targets simultaneously.
• Deployment of Aster 30 interceptors, specifically the advanced Aster 30 B1NT missile, known for its agility and precision.

The system's design emphasizes rapid response times and the ability to operate autonomously or as part of a coordinated network.

Deployment Timeline and International Interest

Initial deliveries of the SAMP/T NG systems to the French and Italian armed forces are slated for early 2026 for operational evaluation. This timeline aligns with the program's goal of commissioning the system in 2026.

Beyond France and Italy, the SAMP/T NG has garnered international attention. Denmark selected the system in September 2025 to bolster its long-range air and missile defense capabilities. Furthermore, there is significant discussion regarding the system's potential deployment to Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed a view that the system should be deployed there first, and France has committed to delivering SAMP/T NG systems to Ukraine once production commences, with initial deliveries anticipated in 2026. Ukraine currently operates older SAMP/T systems, and the NG variant would provide a substantial upgrade to its air defense infrastructure.